Illinois State Benefit Programs and Organizations

Illinois has several Medicaid waiver programs that provide services to individuals with certain disabilities who are at risk of placement into an Intermediate Care Facility for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (ICF/DD).   These programs can also be utilized for financial assistance for autism, providing the help you need to support your family.

PUNS, or Prioritization for Urgency of Needs for Service, is a statewide database to record information about individuals who are potentially in need of service due to developmental disabilities. The state randomly selects individuals who are enrolled in PUNS for services as funding becomes available. During the enrollment process, an Independent Service Coordination Agent (ISC) works with the individual and their family to identify services that may be needed.

The Special Recreation Association Network of Illinois provides special recreation services to adults and children with disabilities. Some communities and cooperatives offer various opportunities for scholarships. You can get in contact with a special recreation association (SRA) in your area.

The Chicago Autism Network helps local individuals and families find and afford effective therapy and support for autism spectrum disorder. They offer Autism Parent Workshops and grants for financial aid.

For the Grace Of offers several opportunities, including scholarships, friendships through social gatherings, and support for individuals with disabilities and their families. Scholarships can be awarded for a specific item, such as assistive technology, service animals, and mobility devices.

The University of Illinois Chicago offers a resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays to support those who teach, care for, or serve children with autism. They offer school resources, digital interactive activities, referrals, training, ongoing consultation for families and professionals, and tips. RCADD offers its support at no cost.

The Illinois Department of Human Services’ Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) helps pay insurance premiums for those who have private medical insurance or secondary public medical insurance (Medicaid) and high-cost medical conditions. The insurance must be available directly to the individual or through someone else, like a child's parent.

The Autism Hero Project promotes autism acceptance while working to change public policy. They sponsor medical insurance for children with autism to help them gain access to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy through their grant program. They strive to create a world of inclusion  

It’s our hope at CABS that these autism resources can aid your family and give the financial help you need as we build the necessary support skills for success of your loved ones. If you have any further questions about ABA therapy please contact our Itasca location. We can be reached at 800.844.1232 or visit us in person at 975 W. Hawthorn Drive, Itasca IL.