Resource Directory /

Champaign Resources

  • 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. For more details see the:

    For more information, contact:

  • Illinois STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III

    STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III provide regional training and resources to early childhood community professionals and families of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (live and on-demand), technical assistance and resource specialists, a lending library and more.

    Visit STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.

    See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

    For questions about STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III, email starnet@wiu.edu or call (309) 298-1634.

    Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.

  • DSCC’s Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions Tip Sheet

    The Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) created this tip sheet to help youth with special healthcare and their families/caregivers build important problem-solving and decision-making skills. This tip sheet includes suggestions, steps and resources for developing the skills you need to be more independent and responsible as an adult.

    Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions tip sheet in English

    Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions tip sheet in Spanish

  • Medical Grants Through United Healthcare Children’s Foundation

    United Healthcare Children’s Foundation’s (UHCCF) mission is to help fill the gap between what medical services/items/equipment a child needs and what their commercial health benefit plan will pay for.

    UHCCF grants provide financial help/assistance for families with children that have medical needs not covered or not fully covered by their commercial health insurance plan.

    To be eligible for grants, children must be 16 years of age or younger at the time of application and have a Social Security number. Eligible families must also meet UHCCF’s economic guidelines.

    Families could receive up to $5,000 annually and $10,000 a lifetime per child for eligible medical services, treatment therapies, items and equipment.

  • 211

    United Way supports 211 a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    A toll-free call to 211 connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services that can improve and lives. You can find information about supplemental food and nutrition programs, shelter and housing options, utility assistance, disaster relief, employment and education opportunities, and more.

  • Illinois STAR NET

    Illinois STAR NET helps provide early childhood professionals and families with the support needed to provide all children with a high-quality, equitable education in inclusive environments. STAR NET provides workshops, funding opportunities, technical assistance and more to promote:

    • Evidence-based inclusive practices for young children with disabilities from birth to age eight
    • Professional development to support educators and families
    • Meaningful child outcomes through innovative and engaging learning experiences

    See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

    Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The project receives annual funding from federal sources.