Unlocking Opportunities: Grants for People with Disabilities

According to the Pew Research Center, there are roughly 42.5 million people living with disabilities in the United States, making grants an essential requirement.

However, finding grants for disabled adults can be a challenge, which is why we created this essential guide. 

Below, you will find a comprehensive list of both public and private disability grants available in the United States to help you lead a more supported and fulfilling life.

Public Grants for Individuals with Disabilities 

Public grants are funded by a federal, state, or another publicly funded agency. Here are some of the top public disability grants that are currently available in the U.S.

Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI) 

This federal grant program is designed to assist people living with a physical, emotional, or mental disability that lasts 12 months or longer or ultimately results in loss of life. The U.S. Social Security Administration uses these funds to assist with living expenses, prescription medications, and more. The SSDI also assists families with children who meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disabled. Some of the qualifying disabilities include autism, visual impairment, cerebral palsy, and down syndrome. 

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

The SSI is another free government grant fund for low-income disabled Americans who are unable to work. Before funds are paid out for various bills and basic needs, screenings take place to identify whether the disability is short-term, partial, or total disability. 

Section 811 Supportive Housing Grant Program for Persons with Disabilities 

Specifically created for rent and housing requirements, this grant program is made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Along with supportive services, these funds are also used towards the development of new homes that benefit the disabled community. 

Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act

The ABLE Act of 2014 makes it possible for states to create savings programs for people living with disabilities. Deposits into these savings accounts can be made by family, friends, or any other individuals. These funds are not taxed and can be used to pay toward qualified disability expenses. 

IDEA

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Federal Special Education Entitlement Grant provides funds to disabled students, ensuring they receive a free public education that matches their specific requirements. IDEA also assists states and educational service agencies in providing for the needs of differently-abled students. 

Federal Student Aid Programs

There are currently several programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education that provide billions of dollars to students with disabilities looking to attend postsecondary schools. Many grants don’t even need to be repaid. There are also a number of campus-based programs available from participating schools.  

Medicare

Government grants for mobility scooters are available through Medicare. All that’s required is a prescription from a medical professional stating the need for mobility equipment in accomplishing daily tasks. Medicare is able to cover up to 80% of the total cost of the equipment. 

Medicaid

This insurance program is funded by the state and is designed to contribute toward medical services for low-income, disabled, and senior citizens in the United States. Qualifying criteria differ between states, but someone’s ability to engage in daily activities will always be reviewed first. 

Autistic People of Color Fund

Autistic people of color who require financial support can access individual microgrants of between $100 and $500 through this fund. An autistic person of color is anyone who is non-white, black, Asian, or an ethnic minority. 

Specially Adapted Housing Program

SAH offers housing grants to Veterans and service members with disabilities, making it possible for them to purchase or alter a home to meet their specific needs. This could involve the installment of ramps or widening doorways to allow for wheelchair access and greater independence overall. 

For more information on public grants for disabled individuals, you can visit the Grant Watch website.

Private Grants for Individuals with Disabilities 

Private grants for disabled adults and children are privately funded by businesses and organizations. Here are some of the top private grants that are currently available in the United States.

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC)

FODAC provides refurbished equipment such as wheelchairs to people with disabilities, helping them better their quality of life. This is made possible through a network of partners, volunteers, and donors. 

Byron Riesch Paralysis Foundation

This organization’s main objective is to find a cure for paralysis, but in the meantime, they provide assistance to those living with neurological disorders. To make it easier to perform daily tasks such as bathing, the Byron Riesch Paralysis Foundation provides people with adaptive equipment for their homes. Scholarships are also available to people struggling with neurological disorders. 

I Got Legs Foundation

U.S. residents with a permanent physical disability can apply for a grant through the I Got Legs Foundation. To qualify, there needs to be proof of financial aid and specific medical documentation. Preference is given to individuals in need of prosthetic treatment or adaptive technologies. Grants can also be used towards home modifications such as the installation of ramps and lifts. 

Elderly or Disabled Living

This particular grant is for low-income elderly and disabled people living in the United States. People over the age of 55 who meet the necessary criteria are eligible for this grant, including those who are determined to be disabled by the federal government. Funds can be used toward bills, health insurance, car repayments, mortgage payments, and more. 

Chanda Center for Health

With the help of therapies, the Chanda Foundation is helping people with physical disabilities to improve their quality of life. Therapies include massage, exercise, chiropractors, acupuncture, and yoga. The center provides access to integrative treatments at its Lakewood facility through disability-competent providers and community partners.

Wheels of Happiness

To help people with disabilities gain more independence, Wheels of Happiness provides medical equipment and supplies, psychological assistance, and general inspiration. All of this is made possible through corporate funding, individual donors, and fundraising events. 

High Fives Non-Profit Foundation

Injuries such as amputation and spinal and brain injuries can be life-altering, which is where High Fives comes in. Individuals who were injured during an adventure sport or inertia-based accident are able to apply for a grant that will help them regain some of their independence. 

Joseph Groh Foundation

This particular grant is for individuals working in construction who sustained serious injury and/or a disability. Grants from the Joseph Groh Foundation can be used to pay for medical equipment as well as home medications such as remodeling for wheelchair access or the construction of ramps and lifts. 

State-Specific Programs & Grants for Disabled Individuals

California Department of Healthcare Services

California’s Department of Healthcare Services currently offers a number of programs that are designed to support and aid the disabled community, including in-home supportive services, home and community-based services, a genetically handicapped persons program, and an assisted living waiver.

Texas In-Home and Family Support Program

This program currently supports individuals who are four years and older and are living with a physical disability. This includes individuals who acquired a disability due to age or because of a medical condition. Grants of up to $3,600 are available per year and can be used toward equipment, minor home modifications, and other disability-related services. 

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

To provide disabled people in Montana with equal access to a fulfilling life, the Department of Public Health and Human Services is involved in a number of support programs, including the developmental disabilities program, pre-employment transition services, and statewide independent living services.

Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), State of Connecticut

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Rehabilitation Services Administration, BRS aids the disabled with sourcing and maintaining employment. Grants are also offered to those who require special transportation and other support to get to and from work. 

The Assistive Technology Program of Colorado 

Disabled individuals living in Colorado who need access to assistive technology devices such as communication tools, hearing aids, and wheelchairs may be eligible for funding through the Assistive Technology Program of Colorado. 

Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority

The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority focuses on awarding mini-grants of up to $2,500 per beneficiary depending on their requirements. However, it should be noted that these grants are awarded to an agency on behalf of a beneficiary. 

Final Words

An abundance of financial and other support is readily available to U.S. citizens living with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to education and work opportunities and can lead a normal life. Assistance is also readily available to those who are feeling nervous or confused about applying for grants for people with disabilities, it’s just a case of reaching out. 

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