By Patrick Bailey
Quality of life can take many different forms. And no matter the age, independence and being able to work towards one’s full potential are key. Physical disabilities can create barriers that directly impact the quality of life in big ways. Grants for people with disabilities offer a range of opportunities that address the special needs of the disability community.
Free up money for the essentials
Health care is expensive no matter how anyone spins it. Even with insurance coverage, co-pays, co-insurance and out-of-pocket costs still leave scores of Americans fighting for their financial lives. Add to this living with a disability, and money for basic, essential needs can quickly be swallowed up by medical care costs.
Statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration show that 20% or more of disabled individuals struggle with alcohol and drug abuse issues compared to 10% of the U. S. population. Money problems are often a big part of what drives individuals to drink whether living with a disability or not. It’s no surprise that with today’s uncertain economy, alcohol rehab and drug rehab admissions abound. Grants for people with disabilities cover a wide range of services and equipment, which can help free up money for the essentials and avoid the health care money pit.
5 grants for people with disabilities
1. National Organization for Vehicle Accessibility
Being able to drive is a hallmark of independence. Unfortunately, cars sold on dealer lots seldom come with modifications for individuals with disabilities. The National Organization for Vehicle Accessibility (NOVA) offers grants that cover the costs involved with modifying a car. NOVA works with mobility dealers around the country to assist people in getting the modifications their vehicle requires in order for them to operate it independently. Grant monies are made available on a quarterly basis, which occurs in February, May, August and November. NOVA’s online application will only appear on its website during an open funding cycle.
2. Kelly Brush Foundation
The mission of the Kelly Brush Foundation is to improve the quality of life for individuals living with spinal cord injury by increasing their participation in recreational activities. Being able to participate in sports fosters feelings of inclusion no matter the level of ability. The grant program makes funding available for purchasing adaptive sporting equipment, such as sport chairs, mono-skis, racing chairs and handcycles. Applications are accepted during the spring and fall seasons. Eligible applicants include individuals with paralysis caused by a spinal cord injury that reside in the United States.
3. High-Fives Nonprofit Organization
Sports and athletes have always been a big part of American culture. So many athletes push themselves to the limit to excel in their roles. When a life-changing injury occurs, it can be heartbreaking on so many levels. The High-Fives Nonprofit Organization sponsors grants for anyone who has sustained a life-altering, sports-related injury, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Mobility-limiting injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputation
Grant monies are available to cover insurance costs, travel assistance, living expenses and adaptive equipment. Applications are accepted at the start of the summer season.
4. Walking With Anthony
People living with spinal cord injuries or SCIs must be able to access rehabilitation therapies on a continuous basis to see any level of improvement. Rehab therapy can be quite expensive, even with insurance coverage. On average, health insurance doesn’t even come close to covering the rehab needs of people with SCIs.
Walking With Anthony offers grants to assist with the range of services needed to properly treat spinal cord injuries. Some of the services covered by Walking With Anthony include rehab therapy costs, equipment and home care needs, along with services that address mental and emotional needs. Grant applications can be submitted year-round.
5. Falling Forward Foundation
Catastrophic medical injuries, such as strokes, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries typically require ongoing rehabilitation. However, the average medical insurance plan only covers 20 to 30 visits. When insurance coverage runs out, many patients stop recovering, which leaves them to face many challenges.
The Falling Forward Foundation offers grants that are designed to pick up where insurance coverage leaves off. Applications are accepted year-round.
After submitting the application, grant guidelines require applicants to have a doctor or physical therapist contact one of their partner locations to evaluate the applicant’s condition and determine eligibility for the program.
The bottom line
A grant can go a long way towards lightening the financial burden of ongoing medical costs, as well as making it possible for people with disabilities to access the tools they need for independence.
Patrick Bailey is a professional writer in the fields of mental health, addiction and living in recovery. He attempts to stay on top of the latest news in the addiction and mental health world, and enjoys writing about these topics to break the stigma associated with them.