SSI

• Low-income families can apply for SSI, or Supplemental Security Income. The family's income, as well as any income the child may have (child support or interest from a bank account) are used to determine how much money will be awarded each month. More importantly, SSI provides the child with Medicaid and an HMO that will completely cover all future medical expenses. Families must reapply each year with proof of income once they are accepted by the agency.
  
  

DDD

• Many states, such as Washington and New Jersey, have a program called DDD, which can stand for Division of Developmental Disabilities, or Department of Developmental Disabilities. If your disabled child has any type of developmental disability, you will qualify for help. Income is not a factor in order to receive help. Once you are accepted, you will receive a case manager. Contact that case manager to find out what stipends are currently available. There may be a cash stipend for respite care, or a stipend for necessary medical equipment not covered by insurance. Your case manager can review your needs and recommend you for the financial help that best fits your situation.
  
  

Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund

• Contact your local Social Services office to see if your state has a Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund. Several states do, including Massachusetts and New Jersey. You do not need to be a low-income family to qualify for financial aid from the Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund, but your child's medical expense must exceed 10 percent of your income. This includes gas, tolls and parking for trips back and forth to medical appointments. It can include the cost of diapers for children over the age of 3 who are not capable of being potty trained. No disability is turned away. Once your application is approved, you can receive a check for part, or all of your out-of-pocket medical expenses.
  
  

Fundraising

• Families that do not qualify for any financial aid programs can organize a fundraiser to help with rising medical bills. Families must first choose a fundraiser. Beef and beers, silent auctions, car washes, bake sales and walkathons are all worthy fundraising options. Once the family has chosen a fundraiser, they can begin organizing volunteers to help. Spreading the word around town will also help bring in more donations. All collected donations should be sent immediately to pay the medical expenses, or placed in a special needs trust fund.