VFN Funding for Families

Many families have benefited from funding assistance:

7/24/12

Support Group Fund: This fund is designed to assist parents with the start-up costs of launching a support group in a specific geographic area or by diagnosis. Funding is available for advertising, speakers, refreshments, space rental, etc. The Support Group Fund is made possible by a grant from the Vermont Department of Health/Children with Special Health Needs (CSHN), through grant #03420-5414.  For an application packet, contact Betty Morse at 800-800-4005, ext. 201.

Respite Fund: Vermont Family Network has a grant from the U.S. Agency of Human Services for flexible respite funding for families through the Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Program.  A limited number of grants are available to caregivers who are raising children with special needs.  The grants are not intended for therapies, car repairs, heating bills, etc.  Rather, the funding is specifically for the caregiver, who may be experiencing stress, to take a break, to renew and refresh, and to take care of themselves and their family.  Some examples of how respite funds have been used include: paying for childcare or summer camp, enjoying an adult class or a change of scenery, joining a fitness program, and/or spending quality time with the other children.  Although the grant is one-time per family, we still would like to hear from you regarding any unmet needs.  Information is great for advocacy.  For more information or to apply, contact Joanne Wechsler at 800-800-4005, ext. 217.

1/4/2011 Respite Grant Update:  Funding is now available in all counties, although some areas do have waitlists.  Families may call to apply or alternatively be added to the waitlist.