|  | Conditions Treatments | Autism

Autism Grants for Parents

The cost of having a child with autism can be astronomical for some families. Many families are facing serious decisions when determining which treatment route is best. According to The Americans with Disabilities Act, parents who have a child with autism can apply for Social Security and welfare benefits. However, these benefits will not cover certain treatments. Disabled World estimates that having an autistic child can cost up to $4 million in the child's lifetime.

  1. National Autism Association

    • The National Autism Association has designed a grant program especially for families of children with autism who are struggling financially. Families who live in the United States may qualify for the grant if they have a child up to age 18 on the autism spectrum. The maximum grant money requested is $1,500. This money can only be used for biomedical treatments, supplements or therapy for the child. The money is paid directly to the vendors of care, not to the families of the patient.

    Act Today for Autism

    • Act Today is a program developed by parents and leaders of the community committed to improving families' lives. Parents who have a child with autism and who live in Arizona may apply for grants, which help pay for the care and treatment of their child. Grants are given to the child's medical provider and are awarded based on the financial need of the families, with verification. Parents may apply for help for past medical bills, current therapy or future medical therapies.

    Autism Family Resources

    • Autism Family Resources is a non-profit organization with a mission to help special-needs families to get medical help. The organization was started by parents of an autistic child, who can relate to the emotional and financial struggle of having a child with special needs. Families can apply for a grant of up to $500. All money will be directly given to the medical service provider. Families may apply for a grant requesting help for equipment for safety, therapy equipment or respite.

    The UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation

    • The UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides financial help for the cost of medical services that are not covered by a commercial health plan. The foundation was started in 1999 in the state of Maryland with the mission of improving the lives of children who need help with medical treatment. The foundation was expanded to all 50 states in January 2006.

Autism - Related Articles