Are there grants I can apply for?

All too often, parents of children with ASD incur unexpected and immense out-of-pocket costs for treatments and services. Unfortunately, in many cases insurance companies do not cover these expenses. Through the generosity of foundations and, sometimes, public funding, applicable grants might help parents offset these costs.

Please read each option carefully and understand that specific criteria pertain to each. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and information is subject to change.

Asperger Association of New England Family Grant Programs

Available to families who have a child with Asperger Syndrome or closely related disorder (high-functioning autism, nonverbal learning disability). AANE can transfer your application to similar programs listed below if one program or request cannot adequately meet your needs. 617-393-3824. www.aane.org/

  • Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism:  Available to moderate and low-income families (see details below).
  • Edwin Phillips Foundation:  Cash assistance to families residing in Plymouth County, Massachusetts.
  • Family grants:  Sponsored by a private donor on a first come-first served basis.

For more information or to obtain applications, visit www.aane.org/ or call 617-393-3824

Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund

Provides financial assistance to families in Massachusetts for expenses incurred for the medical and related needs of children under age 22 who are not otherwise covered by insurance, federal or state health-care assistance. 800-882-1435 or 617-624-6060. www.mass.gov/cicrf

Consumer Empowerment Funds Program of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council

Provides funds for individuals who are legal MA residents with developmental disabilities and/or a family member or guardian to attend conferences, trainings, or other events in MA or another state. Applications must be approved before the event and be based upon set program guidelines. 617-770-7676 ext. 115. www.mass.gov/mddc/cerp/index.htm

The Danny Foundation

Funding ($100 to $500 per year) is available to individuals with autism and their families to help with costs for services and programs. Amounts are based upon financial need. The Danny Foundation is funded in part by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. 781-784-7022. 119 Glendale Road, Sharon, MA 02067.

The Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)

Provides assistance, information and funding options for services and child care for children, birth to age 5, and their families. 617-988-6600. www.eec.state.ma.us/

Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism

Provides grants to IRS approved 501 c (3) organizations and qualified schools that in turn provide services, family support grants and resources to families. 866-3AUTISM or 508-270-1855, Framingham, MA. www.dougflutiejrfoundation.org/

Easter Seals of Massachusetts

Offers a variety of programs and services for children and adults with disabilities and special needs. An assistive technology loan program and some funding are available; 617-226-2640 or 800-922-8290, Boston; 508-751-6350 or 800-922-8290 Worcester. www.ma.easterseals.com

Edwin Phillips Foundation

Provides grants directly to families who have children with disabilities, including physical and cognitive challenges. Funds can be used for more expensive projects or services such as assistive technology or home modifications. P.O. Box 610075, Newton, MA 02461-0075.

Family Support Programs through Department of Developmental Services

If your child, birth to age 22, has a developmental disability or global developmental delay, you may qualify for services through Massachusetts’ Department of Mental Retardation’s family support. There may be flexible funding for respite care and other needed equipment or services. Specific family support guidelines and more information are available. 617-727-5608. www.mass.gov/dds

Helping Hands Program of the National Autism Association

Provides one-time grant awards per family based on income, need, and availability of funding. Grant awards are paid directly to vendor or service agency. Child must be ages birth to 18, reside int he US, and diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. 877-NAA-AUTISM (877-622-2884). www.nationalautismassociation.org/helpinghand.php

SSI & Public Benefits Information

Provides benefits to families because of a child’s disability, depending on income. To apply or find out more, call (800) 772-1213. www.ssa.gov/SSA_Home.html