Helping Hand

With greater autism numbers comes greater need for services. Unfortunately, most insurance plans do not cover autism services. NAA’s Helping Hand Program was developed as a financial aid tool for families that need it most. The program helps qualified families pay for medical and therapy services used to treat individuals diagnosed with autism.

To be notified when our application period for 2013 opens, please join our mailing list. 

 

Autism is treatable.

The Helping Hand Program provides families with financial assistance in getting necessary medical treatments/testing, supplements and behavioral therapy services for their child with autism. Do not apply for this grant if you are seeking funds for camp tuition, respite care, fencing, trampolines, swingsets, trips to Disney World, etc.

This program is intended ONLY for parents in DIRE financial need. Do not apply if your annual income exceeds $50,000.

Dear NAA,

I want to express my sincere gratitude for the generous grant that NAA awarded to my son. I am extremely moved and I am at a loss for words to express my emotions. The financial hardship that accompanies kids with autism is overwhelming, especially in a single parent household with limited income. Without your financial help, I was not able to provide the prescribed supplements for my son and now, I can give him what he needs.

Thanks to all of you! You have helped more than you can imagine.

An NAA Helping Hand Grant Recipient

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my child qualifies for help from the National Autism Association?

A: Your child must meet all three basic criteria to apply:

1. Birth to age 21.

2. Reside in the United States of America.

3. Diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

Q: How much money can I request?

A: The maximum amount we can award per family is a one-time grant of $1,000.

Q: How do I apply for assistance from the National Autism Association for my child?

A: First, review the three basic criteria. If you meet these, then you must complete a GRANT APPLICATION. You must attach a letter from your child’s physician that confirms your child’s diagnosis. You must provide a copy of your most recent tax return. If you were not required to file a tax return, other proof of income is required. Your annual income cannot exceed $50,000.

Q: Are grant funds paid directly to families?

A: At no time are funds transferred to families. All grants awarded are paid directly to the vendor or service provider to pay for supplements/medication, medical evaluation or testing, therapies, etc.

Q: I’ve sent my application in. How long until I know if my application has been approved?

A: ONLY APPROVED GRANT RECIPIENTS WILL BE CONTACTED BY NAA. If you wish to confirm receipt of your application, mail it with a return receipt requested by the post office or delivery confirmation. All applications will be reviewed in August and grant distribution will be completed no later than 9/30/2013. If you have not been contacted by NAA by 9/30/2013, your application has not been approved.

Q: Can I fax my grant application?

A: No, all applications must be sent by mail.

Q: Where do I mail my grant application?

A: Your application must be mailed to NAA, Attn: Helping Hand Project, 20 Alice Agnew Dr., Attleboro Falls, MA 02763.

Q: How can I confirm that my application has been received?

A: When you mail your application, request delivery confirmation or a return receipt from the post office.

Q: I have health insurance. Can I still apply for assistance?

A: Yes.

Q: I’m not sure if this request falls within the grant guidelines. Should I still send in an application?

A: If your request is for something other than medical treatment/testing, supplements or behavioral therapy for your child with autism, it does not fall within the grant guidelines.

Q: We have so many medical bills, we’re having trouble paying the rent/electric /water/telephone bills. Can NAA help us?

A: The guidelines of this grant do not allow payment for anything other than medical treatment/testing, supplements or behavioral therapy for your child with autism. Unfortunately, we do not have funding for rent, food, utility payments, etc. but do suggest that you call 2-1-1. 2-1-1 provides free and confidential information and referrals. Call 2-1-1 for help with food, housing, employment, health care, counseling and more. Learn more about your local 2-1-1 by either phoning or visiting www.211.org. 

Q: Do you know of any other grant programs we can apply for?

A: We suggest contacting the following organizations for information on their grant programs.

ACT-Today at http://www.act-today.org

United Healthcare Children’s Foundation at http://www.uhccf.org

TACA: http://www.tacanow.org/about-taca/family-scholarship-program/

Generation Rescue: http://www.generationrescue.org

NAA cannot provide details on grant guidelines or availability through the above-listed organizations. Please contact them directly for information.