Resource Directory /

Rockford Resources

  • National Federation of the Blind of Illinois

    The National Federation of the Blind of Illinois (NFBI) is a nonprofit organization serving blind individuals and their sighted friends and family of all ages. NFBI provides information, programs and well-trained leaders to help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities, and effect change at the state and national levels. Programs include:

    • A free audio news service for anyone who is blind, low-vision, or otherwise print-disabled
    • Scholarship and education programs
    • Voter resources
    • Statewide and local chapters

    Visit NFBI’s website to view the complete list of Illinois chapters and contact information.

    Please contact the chapter nearest you for more information.

  • Jordan Thomas Foundation

    The Jordan Thomas Foundation (JTF) supports children living with limb loss and limb difference with the prostheses they need throughout their growing years. In addition to specialized prosthetic devices, JTF provides support services and programs for children and their families, resources to help recipients participate in activities, scholarships and more.

    JTF recipients can be of any age, up to 18 years old. JTF also offers a one-time assistance program for young adults aged 18 to 24 years old. Visit the foundation’s FAQ page to learn more. JFT accepts applications on a rolling basis.

    For questions or more information, contact JTF at (615) 455-5505 or  info@jordanthomasfoundation.org.

  • WhyHunger Hotline and Find Food Database

    The WhyHunger Hotline and Find Food Database connect people in need across the United States to food pantries, soup kitchens, summer meal sites, government nutrition programs, and grassroots organizations that provide access to free food and support services. You can:

    • Call (800) 5-HUNGRY
    • Text your zip code to (800) 548-6479
    • Use the online form on the WhyHunger website to find local emergency food providers and other support services

  • Midwest Food Bank of Illinois-Bloomington-Normal

    Midwest Food Bank of Illinois-Bloomington-Normal provides food to nonprofit agencies across Central Illinois and beyond. Organizations include food pantries, homeless shelters, residential programs and children’s food programs. In an effort to serve more agencies, Midwest Food Bank offers volunteer opportunities and several off-site places where agencies can pick up food.

    Midwest Food Bank of Illinois-Bloomington-Normal’s website also includes:

  • National Federation of the Blind

    The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind people in the United States. NFB helps create a wide range of opportunities for children and adults who are blind in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico. Programs and services cover a wide range of areas, including advocacy, education, Braille certification, parent support and resources, training, employment, technology and more.

    A small sampling of NFB resources includes:

    For more information, contact NFB at (410) 659-9314 or nfb@nfb.org

    There is also an Illinois chapter. Visit the National Federation of the Blind in Illinois website, call (312) 343-8396, or email  president@nfbofillinois.org.

  • Illinois Autism Insurance Coalition

    The Illinois Autism Insurance Coalition provides resources for consumers, providers, clinicians, employers and educators on issues related to medical insurance coverage for behavioral health services for autism, developmental disabilities and mental health conditions in Illinois.

    Coalition resources include:

    For more information, contact the Illinois Autism Insurance Coalition at (614) 565-5765 or help@ilasd.com.

  • Illinois Department of Human Services Find Food Website

    The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Find Food website offers a list of advocacy, education, and social support services, as well as links to food pantries and soup kitchens throughout Illinois. IDHS Find Food resources include:

    You can contact the IDHS Helpline at:

    • 1 (800) 843-6154
    • 1(866) 324-5553 TTY