Resource Directory /

Financial Assistance and Grant Programs Resources

  • Learning Disabilities Association of America

    The Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) provides tools, resources, and community. LDA’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities through support, education, and advocacy.

  • Legal Aid Chicago

    Legal Aid Chicago provides free legal assistance in civil cases to people living in Chicago and suburban Cook County with limited income or special legal needs. It focuses on helping in the following key areas:

    • Family and safety –  where personal safety and financial stability are at risk
    • House and apartment – protecting safe and affordable housing for tenants and homeowners
    • Money and debt –  protecting income and assets from unfair collections and fraud
    • Work and employment rights – protecting the rights and benefits of workers and reducing barriers to employment
    • Health, disability and basic needs – accessing and protecting benefits for basic human needs
    • Immigration – obtaining protected status for victims of crime, including U-visa, VAWA (for victims of domestic violence) and T-visa (for victims of human trafficking)

  • LifeLine Pilots

    LifeLine Pilots is a non-profit group providing free air transportation to patients seeking a second opinion or in need of treatment at a clinic far from home for non-emergency medical needs.

    The organization serves individuals who may not be able to travel long distances any other way or have financial or health-related needs.  Volunteer pilots fly passengers in need within a 10 state region. Lifeline Pilots also works with other volunteer pilot organizations to arrange flights beyond their service area.

    If you have questions or need to determine if you qualify for services,  call 800-822-7972 or fill out the mission request form.

  • Living Independently Now Center Incorporated of Southern Illinois (LINC Inc.)

    The Living Independently Now Center of Southern Illinois Incorporated (LINC Inc.) provides support and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families in St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties. LINC Inc. has offices in Swansea and Red Bud. Its resources and programs include:

    • Deaf and hard-of-hearing services
    • Assistive technology equipment loan program
    • Community reintegration
    • Computer literacy
    • Mental health resources
    • Peer-to-peer counseling and support groups
    • Respite care program for active duty Air Force and Navy families

  • Love is Respect – Teen Dating and Healthy Relationships for Young Adults

    Love is Respect, a project of the National Domestic Violence Hotline, offers information, support and advocacy to young people between the ages of 13 and 26 who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships. Free, confidential services are available anytime via:

    • Live chat
    • Call (866) 331-9474 or TTY (800) 787-3224
    • Text ‘LOVEIS’ to 22522

    Services for the deaf and hard of hearing are also available:

    Love is Respect also provides a Parent Discussion Guide on Youth Healthy Relationships.

  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

    The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible low-income households pay for home energy services (primarily heating during winter months).

    Illinois residents with a household income that does not exceed an amount determined annually by the Department of Commerce are eligible. The program determines annual eligibility levels based on available funding and may not exceed 200 percent of the federal nonfarm poverty level.

    See the How to Apply for LIHEAP page for more information. To help find an office serving your area, visit this complete list of LIHEAP application agencies based on county.

    For more program information, check out the LIHEAP frequently asked questions or call the Help Illinois Families Call Center at (833) 711-0374.

  • Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) – DuPage County

    The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a one-time water and wastewater payment assistance program to help households that are facing the threat of disconnection, have already been disconnected or have past due balances over $250 for their water and wastewater services combined. Customers may apply one time for water and one time for wastewater for the life of the program, which is Feb. 1, 2022 – Aug. 31, 2023.

    DuPage County applications are taken by appointment only by calling (630) 407-6500 or emailing CSprograms@dupageco.org.

  • Lyft Wheelchair-Accessible Ride Share Service in Chicago

    In Chicago, Lyft can provide a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that will fit a fixed-frame wheelchair. Through the Lyft app, riders can choose the ride type called “Wheelchair.” This option will pair riders with available drivers who can accommodate a non-folding or motorized wheelchair or scooter. Pickup and drop-off locations must be within Chicago city limits.

    Wheelchair rides aren’t available in every market yet. Please visit Lyft’s website to learn more about using their app and wheelchair service areas.

  • Magical Moments Foundation

    Magical Moments Foundation is a wish-granting organization for children with facial differences. Working with the children and their families, the foundation creates experiences and adventures to comfort, inspire and encourage children that face the world with a difference. Family members, medical professionals, teachers and others may nominate a child for a magical moment. To be eligible, a child must:

    • Have a congenital or acquired facial difference
    • Be between the ages of 3 and 18
    • Not yet received a wish from another wish-granting organization

    Visit the Magical Moments Foundation website for more details.

  • Margaret Hackett Family Program

    Congenital anomalies of the central nervous system (CNS) are birth defects of the physical structure of the brain or spinal cord that occur during fetal intrauterine growth such as spina bifida, hydrocephalus and other conditions. The Margaret Hackett Family Program (MHFP) at the University of Chicago provides individuals and families help with diagnosing, understanding, caring for and addressing the challenges of living with CNS congenital anomalies. MHFP also provides research and research grants.

    The Margaret Hacker Family Program also offers:

    • A monthly, virtual “Connect Group” for individuals and families affected by CNS anomalies
    • In-person quarterly socials
    • In-person events twice a year featuring food, giveaways, fun activities and resources
    • Help with finding resources and medical care