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Illinois Respite Coalition

The Illinois Respite Coalition (IRC) is a not-for-profit organization of caregivers and respite providers dedicated to supporting families and ensuring access to quality respite services for the residents of Illinois. The IRC assists caregivers by connecting them to resources in their area, providing training on respite topics and having funding available for emergency respite. The IRC helps caregivers of individuals across the lifespan with any disability.

The Emergency Respite Care 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.  Emergency respite care may be for an unplanned or planned event for reasons including:

  • Caregiver illness (physical, mental or emotional)
  • Caregiver hospitalization
  • Work-related situation
  • Reduction of stress level

The website gives examples of qualifying circumstances and information on how to apply. See the emergency care flyer for more details. (The flyer is also available in Spanish.)

For more information contact:

  • The Illinois Respite Coalition at (866) ILL-RESP (455-7377)
  • Statewide Coordinator Tammy Foster at tfoster@illinoisrespitecoalition.org or (866) 455-7377, ext. 104
  • Spanish-speaking callers may call (866) 455-7377, ext. 103