Access to a park is just one of the little luxuries that the disabled want to enjoy.
Disabled persons in a community face many challenges besides those posed by a disease or a medical condition. Access to services is a big problem many face. The State of Illinois is committed to the disabled and has developed grants to help maintain their independence. These grants impact housing, services and education, and ultimately improve the quality of life for the disabled in Illinois.
Housing Grants in Illinois
The State of Illinois recognizes that housing poses many different problems for the disabled. The problems include access to and from the building, need for modification to accommodate a specific medical condition, and maintenance of the dwelling when a disabled person can not. The Illinois Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development administers grants to cover these and other housing-related issues. It also manages a federal grant which is meant to assist in providing shelter to the homeless. The HUD website explains the various grants and has several on-line calculators to determine eligibility.
Financial Grants
Besides the income provided by Social Security, some disabled persons may be eligible for other financial benefits under the Aid to the Aged, Blind or Disabled Grant program. The grant provides financial assistance for basic needs to low-income disabled persons. This program is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Energy Assistance Grants
Utilities and fuel costs often force a disabled person to make a tough decision: either pay the utility bill or buy medication. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs administers energy assistance grants through offices in the State. The grants provide assistance with heating costs, furnace repair, weatherization and emergency situations such as when the heat is shut off during winter months. There are eligibility requirements for these grants and the funding is limited. The grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tags: disabled person, disabled persons, Illinois Department, medical condition, State Illinois