Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society (LLDSS) provides a support network for families residing in and around Sangamon County. LLDSS programs and events promote awareness, inclusion and education of people with Down syndrome.

LLDSS activities include monthly meetings, social gatherings and recreational opportunities.

The Central Illinois Down Syndrome Organization (CIDSO) offers support, events and educational resources for families in McLean County who have loved ones with Down syndrome.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Increasing Community Access to Testing (ICATT) testing locator can help you find no-cost COVID-19 testing locations and contact information for the providers.

Every provider handles appointments differently. Please be sure to schedule your appointment directly with the provider you choose.

The Test to Treat site can help you be tested, treated and prescribed treatment for COVID-19 at little to no cost. The site provides information on accessing lifesaving treatments for COVID nationwide and contacting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 hotline and the Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL).

The eHomeCare program is a free online training program that aims to provide comprehensive information for those caring for children with a tracheostomy (trach) with/without a ventilator. The training is for:

• Nurses working in home-based environments
• Physicians
• Respiratory therapists
• Family members and caregivers of children with trachs with and without ventilators

The course is available until Sept. 30, 2026. Learners can use this course for initial training, an annual review or as an ongoing resource.

Medicare is federal health insurance run by the Social Security Administration. This fact sheet from the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) explains the program’s eligibility and how to enroll.

It also explains the Medicare Savings Program, the Extra Help Program and Medicare coverage and costs.

Medicare Fact Sheet in English
Medicare Fact Sheet in Spanish (coming soon)

The National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG) is a nationwide, nonprofit organization that raises awareness about the needs of children and teens who are grieving a death. NACG provides education and resources for anyone supporting a child grieving the loss of a loved one.

In addition to support toolkits on a range of topics, NACG also provides:

• Information on how to talk about death to children
• Online learning and webinars
• A grief support resource library

Many children experience the death of a close family member or friend at some point during their childhood.  The American Academy of Pediatrics’ website HealthyChildren.org provides information for parents about childhood grief, ways to help your child, and where to find support.

The information includes:

• Signs your child may need more help
• Important information about tweens
• Resources for more information

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides a Find a Health Center locator tool to help you find health centers and COVID-19 services in your community. The tool is available in many languages.

The loss of a child is never easy. The Funeral Service Foundation’s free guide “When a Child Dies: Planning Acts of Love & Legacy” offers guidance, support and inspiration to families saying goodbye. Topics include:

• The funeral planning process
• Talking with children about death
• Ideas for planning a meaningful tribute
• Carrying forward and dealing with your grief