Family Support Resources
Jack’s Basket supports new parents of a child with Down syndrome by providing information, a support system and a welcome basket to let them know they’re not alone. Baskets are available from the time of diagnosis (prenatal or at birth) up to the baby’s first birthday. Parents, friends, family members, healthcare providers or Down syndrome organizations can request baskets.
The website also includes local and national resources to support people with Down syndrome and their families.
JCFS Chicago’s Respite Program
JCFS Chicago’s Respite Program provides support to families caring for children and youth with special needs.
Its program “takes a supportive, nurturing and therapeutic approach, combined with fun, social and recreational activities, while providing a well-deserved break for parents.”
For more information, visit the JCFS website, email ask@jcfs.org or call toll-free at (855) ASK-JCFS (275-5237).
June Jessee Memorial Foundation
The June Jessee Memorial Foundation (JJMF) provides events, information, financial assistance and mental health services to children with medically complex neurological conditions and their families in the St. Louis area and beyond. JJMF resources include:
- Uncomplicated financial assistance for out-of-pocket medical needs
- Free mental health services
- A welcoming, understanding community
- Information to help make journeys easier
The Kids Wish Network provides programs to help inspire hope, create happy memories, share comfort and reach kids in life-altering situations. The organization grants wishes and provides programs across the country to children between the ages of 3 and 18 who are facing extraordinary challenges due to illness, hospitalization, homelessness, and abuse. Anyone can refer a child.
Kids Wish Network services include:
- Lifetime Wishes – grants customized wishes to children who are battling a life-threatening medical condition
- A Child Forever – comforts families devastated by the loss of a child by offering funeral assistance and ensuring a proper end-of-life ceremony
- Holiday of Hope – brings holiday happiness to children facing poverty, addiction, homelessness and life-altering situations
- Hero Wishes – helps brave kid-warriors who have survived tough and often tragic life circumstances
- Project Toy Drop – delivers gifts and laughter to at-risk youth and kids of American servicemen or women
The Lake County Housing Authority (LCHA) provides a variety of programs to help individuals, families and senior citizens afford decent, safe housing and achieve economic independence.
Please contact LCHA at (847) 223-1170 for more information about coverage area and program availability.
Latino Resources Institute in Chicago
The Latino Resource Institute of Illinois (LRII) provides case management, advocacy, community outreach, counseling and other services to individuals and families in the south side of Chicago and suburban Cook County. LRII also offers:
- Coaching and mentoring
- Work readiness, life skills/empowerment training
- Court advocacy
Legal Advice Line for Victims of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault
Prairie State Legal Services (PSLS) offers the Legal Advice Line for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. The Legal Advice Line is available in certain counties served by PSLS.
For a list of counties served, the hours the advice line is open and more information on the services offered, click here for their flyer in English or Spanish.
Lightways Peace of the Heart Kids Camp
Lightways Peace of the Heart Kids Camp is for children and youth ages 7 to 13 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Guided by the Lightways Grief Support Team, kids will participate in activities to help process their grief and meet others who have experienced a loss. The four-day camp also includes hiking, fishing, arts and crafts, music and games.
Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society
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.
Living Independently Now Center Incorporated of Southern Illinois (LINC Inc.)
The Living Independently Now Center of Southern Illinois Incorporated (LINC Inc.) provides support and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families in St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties. LINC Inc. has offices in Swansea and Red Bud. Its resources and programs include:
- Deaf and hard-of-hearing services
- Assistive technology equipment loan program
- Community reintegration
- Computer literacy
- Mental health resources
- Peer-to-peer counseling and support groups
- Respite care program for active duty Air Force and Navy families