Resource Directory
Find resource information for families and children with special health care needs.
Some of these resources are specific for families and children served by the Core or Home Care Program, while others may be of interest to any family or child with special health needs. For resources specific to your area, go to the Browse by Region links on this page.
You can use the search field in the upper right hand corner to narrow your view. For example, you can search for support groups, respite, a specific topic, or by condition. Check back often for updates. If you don’t find what you need, call us at (800) 322-3722 or send us an email.
- Icon indicates condition covered by Specialized Care for Children
Education Resources
The Autism Program is an initiative that offers resource information & promotes best practice in the diagnosis, treatment and education of children with ASD.
Special Education Rights: A Guide for Parents
This guide developed by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) informs parents and others about the educational rights of children with disabilities that receive special education services. Available in Spanish or English.
Illinois Student Assistance Commission
ISAC is committed to helping make college more accessible and affordable for Illinois families. In addition to grant and scholarship administration, ISAC’s prepaid tuition program, and the online resources it provides, ISAC’s college access and outreach initiatives provide direct assistance to students and families in navigating the college-going and financial aid process.
Family Resources
This organization’s emergency respite program offers funding and resources to support caregivers who are not receiving any respite services and have an urgent need for respite care in the absence of any other funding source. The website gives examples of qualifying circumstances and a contact to apply.
Maryville Children's Healthcare Center
The center provides care to children with complex medical needs who are not yet able to go home. They also provide training for caregivers enabling them to care for the child when he/she transitions home. Maryville offers both transitional and respite care.
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) helps people find the types of assistive technology they need and provides lists of funding sources available. IATP also provides assistive technology demonstrations and assistive technology device loans.
Medical/Health Resources
Almost Home Kids is a short-term, community based pediatric healthcare facility. They provide transitional care in a home-like setting to children with complicated health needs and they train families to provide care in preparation for going home. Almost Home Kids also provides respite care. They are located in Chicago and Naperville.
Get Covered Illinois - The Official Health Marketplace
If you are looking for health insurance for yourself or your family, or if you own a small business or lead a nonprofit organization this website is the official site in Illinois for signing up for health insurance.
Transition QuickGuide: Take Charge of Planning and Managing Your Own Health and Career Goals
This checklist provides information and resources about health insurance coverage, self-care, health care transition, decision-making and career planning and management.