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 private insurance companies do not cover these expenses. Through the generosity of many foundations and, sometimes, public funding, applicable grants are available to help parents offset these costs.

Please read each option carefully and understand that specific criteria and guidelines pertain to each. Although these grants are not guaranteed, they can assist with covering some of the costs you might incur. The following is a list of grants and funding sources available in Massachusetts. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and information is subject to change.

The Danny Foundation

Funding ($100 to $500 per year) is available to individuals with autism and their families. Preference is given to Massachusetts families and organizations and must be used for:

  • Educating individuals regarding the diagnosis and treatment of autism.
  • Assisting families in caring for individuals with autism, including respite care.
  • Supporting professionals in furthering their education in the treatment of individuals with autism.
  • Recognizing direct-care workers nominated by their peers. 

The Danny Foundation will consider innovative projects designed to increase independence or quality of life for people with autism and their families. Amounts are based upon financial need. The Danny Foundation is funded in part by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. 119 Glendale Road, Sharon, MA 02067-1431. 781-784-7022.  

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.  85 Main St., Suite 101, Watertown, MA 02472.

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.

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

Family support programs through Department of Mental Retardation

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.dmr.state.ma.us

Limited, collaborative grants approved for families who have a child age 6 to 18 with a developmental disability and who is at high risk for out of home/residential placement.  Although applications are being accepted, there is currently a long waitlist. Families must be DMR-eligible for family support services. 617-727-5608 or 781-338-3000.  www.dmr.state.ma.us or www.doe.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  

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. http://www.ssa.gov/SSA_Home.html

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

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