Lombard - UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children

HIPP Program Tip Sheet and Application

The Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program pays health insurance premiums for some children who have high medical costs and who have private health insurance available.

This HIPP Program Tip Sheet from the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) explains the program’s availability and how to apply. (The HIPP Tip Sheet is also available in Spanish.)

You can also find copies of the HIPP Program application in English and HIPP Program application in Spanish.

Energy Reimbursement Tip Sheet for MFTD Waiver Families

Energy reimbursement is available through the Home and Community-Based Services Waiver for Medically Fragile Technology Dependent Children (commonly called the MFTD waiver).

Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) participants who receive MFTD waiver services are eligible to receive credit toward their household’s energy bills for the use of medical equipment and air conditioning.

This tip sheet includes information on the requirements for energy bill credit and how to submit bills for credit. (English and Spanish)

Mental Health Resources for Kids, Teens and Young Adults

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has resources geared toward kids, teens and young adults. NAMI also provides a coloring and activity book and step-by-step guidance to help parents explore and talk to children about emotional topics or mental health challenges.

iTaalk Autism Foundation

iTaalk (Interactive Technology Assisting Autistic Little Kids) Autism Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides resources, training and assistive technology to help individuals with autism and other disabilities develop greater independence at all stages of life.

iTaalk’s App Facilitator Program provides grants to individuals of all ages and disabilities (not just autism) to help them access apps that are key to helping them communicate. Applicants must own the device for which they are requesting apps.

Youth, Adolescent and Young Adult Suicide Prevention

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has developed a “Youth, Adolescent and Young Adult Suicide Prevention” webpage to help family members and others prevent suicide by knowing:

The facts about suicide
Who is at risk
Warning signs specific to youth, adolescents and young adults
Protective factors

Mental Health Online Screening

One of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition is to take a mental health screening at mhascreening.org. The screening is free and anonymous.

Taking a screen can help you to better understand what you are experiencing and get helpful resources. After that, consider talking to someone you trust about your results and seek out a professional to find the support you need.

“Secure Your Financial Future” Toolkit

The U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration has created the “Secure Your Financial Future” toolkit for individuals with disabilities. The toolkit provides clear and accurate financial information based on where you are in your employment journey.

The toolkit is designed to help you meet your financial goals when you are:

Parents Alliance Employment Project

Parents Alliance Employment Project (PAEP) provides training and resources to help people with disabilities find competitive employment in DuPage, Cook, DeKalb, McHenry, Kane, Kendall, Lake and Will counties.

PAEP youth training programs provide education, daily living and vocational training. PAEP also provides adult services offering career counseling, job training and preparation, job development, job placement, job coaching, support and follow-up services.

In addition, PAEP works closely with employers to understand their recruiting, hiring and retention needs and provides information to help them increase diversity and meet their workforce needs.

TotalLink2 Community

TotalLink2 Community provides individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 18 years or older in the north suburbs of Chicago with a wide range of person-centered services to promote employment, independence and strong social connections in the community.

TotalLink provides career and vocational services including job development and placement using Customized Employment, a proven and innovative approach that utilizes skill-based coaching, family coaching, life planning, and educational and recreational opportunities designed to get young adults with disabilities involved in their community and deepen social connections.

Habitat for Humanity – Illinois

Some Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Illinois also offer programs to help with home repairs, weatherization and access ramps for eligible homeowners. Please contact the Habitat for Humanity affiliate serving your area for specific details and application information.

Habitat affiliates offering the additional programs include:

Habitat for Humanity International affiliates in the Chicagoland area:

Lombard Resources