Financial Assistance and Grant Programs Resources
UIC’s Institute on Disability and Human Development
The University of Illinois Chicago’s Institute on Disability and Human Development (IDHD) promotes community participation, health, empowerment and advocacy for people with disabilities and their families across all aspects of life. IDHD is part of the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) network for the state of Illinois.
UIC’s IDHD supports and services include:
- Webinars
- Services and clinics for individuals with disabilities, their families and professionals
- Research
- Continuing education
Unique Sweets provides delicious treats and a safe space for people with autism and other disabilities to participate in life skills training. Team members participate in event planning, purchasing supplies, baking, decorating and packaging and receive a stipend to cover their expenses to get to the kitchen. Unique Sweets also hosts social events throughout the year to foster peer-relationships, social skills and community support.
Unique Sweets also offers:
- Life skills (virtual or in-person) peer-led cooking classes
- Social events and an annual Party With a Purpose
- Inclusive workshops, information sessions and social events with other organizations
- Referrals to other programs and services as needed
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) promotes a life of inclusion and provides resources for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, their families and communities.
The UCP website has resources on topics including assistive technology, housing and home modification, travel and transportation, education, caregiving and more. You can also find UCP affiliates in the state of Illinois.
United Leukodystrophy Foundation
The United Leukodystrophy Foundation (ULF) is a nonprofit providing leukodystrophy patients and their families with support and resources. ULF can help families with finding medical care, genetic counseling, networking and financial assistance. It also provides funding for medical research each year.
ULF is based in Dekalb, Ill. Its Services and supports also include:
- Leukodystrophy frequently-asked questions and a glossary of terms
- Clinical trials
- Virtual caregiver support groups
- The Hultman Memorial Fund for families facing financial hardship
- Webinars and an annual family conference
The United Spinal Association empowers and advocates for wheelchair users and people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) nationwide. The organization provides local chapters, disability resources, peer support, a manual wheelchair guide and app, a health equity checklist and toolkit and more. Its resources include:
- The United Spinal Association of Illinois
- Peer support groups and mentorship programs (in-person or virtual)
- Equipment or supply closet/loan program
- Regular social events and activities
- Individual grants to members
- The Disability Etiquette Guide to download and share
United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter
The United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter (USAIC) is a non-profit offering information and support resources for people paralyzed by trauma and medical conditions. It also serves family members and health care and related professionals serving the spinal cord injury community. USAIC is located in Palos Heights but provides information, events and educational programs statewide. Its programs include:
- Virtual and in person peer support groups
- The “Living with Spinal Cord Injury” program for health professionals and health science students
- “Injury Prevention” for school children, seniors and other groups featuring members’ experiences, and information on preventing injuries and falls
- Advocacy and more
United Way of St. Clair County
United Way of St. Clair County supports a variety of local health and human services programs to empower residents to raise their quality of life.
Programs supported through United Way of St. Clair County include:
Universal Telephone Assistance Program
Linkup and Lifeline are two federally funded programs that assist families with paying for telephone installation and monthly service. Eligibility requirements apply.
Valley Education for Employment System (VALEES)
Valley Education for Employment System (VALEES) provides career and technical education (CTE) courses and oversees a variety of state and federal education improvement grants for schools in DeKalb, LaSalle, Lee, Kane and Kendall counties. Students with disabilities and other special populations in the VALEES region can earn industry credentials and education benefits, participate in skill-building workshops and competitions, and connect with business and industry. Parents, guardians, educators and professionals can visit the VALEES website for resources and programs for special populations.
Variety – The Children’s Charity of Illinois
Variety of Illinois’ mission is to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities by providing the equipment and experiences needed to reach their highest potential.
Its programs include Variety at Play, which offers inclusive, accessible activities for the whole family; Kids on the Go that provides mobility equipment not covered by insurance for children with disabilities; and Live to Achieve that encourages participation and excellence in adaptive sports.
