General Resources
Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society
Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society (LLDSS) provides a support network for families residing in and around Sangamon County. LLDSS programs and events promote awareness, inclusion and education of people with Down syndrome.
LLDSS activities include monthly meetings, social gatherings and recreational opportunities.
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
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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:
- Videophone (855) 812-1001
- Instant messenger at DeafHotline
- Email nationdeafhotline@adwas.org
Love is Respect also provides a Parent Discussion Guide on Youth Healthy Relationships.
Loving Bottoms Diaper Bank works with 26 partner agencies in Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, Henry, Knox, McDonough, Mercer, Peoria, Tazewell, Stark, and Warren counties. In addition to diapers, they provide period supplies and incontinence products.
For help, use this list to contact the partner agency closest to you. You can also visit the Loving Bottoms Diaper Bank FAQ page on their website for more information.
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).
Additionally, you will also qualify for assistance with your water and wastewater bills if your household is disconnected, in threat of disconnection or if you are more than $250 in arrears on your current bill. You will apply for Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) at the same time you complete your current LIHEAP application.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, some local agencies are closed to the public, but applications may be made remotely.
To help find an office serving your area, visit this complete list of LIHEAP application agencies based on county.
For more program information, get the Help Illinois Families flyer, check out the frequently asked questions or call the LIHEAP hotline at (877) 411-WARM (9276).
Local agencies may offer different types of LIHEAP assistance depending on funding availability and the utility service area.
Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) – DuPage County
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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.
Luella’s Lodge provides resources, retreats, support groups and non-traditional holistic therapies for families grieving the death of a child.
The non-profit includes a secluded log cabin on 10 acres in Oakwood, Ill., offering a private lake, hiking and biking trails, and other amenities to help families connect with one another through grief and healing.
Magic Wheelchair is a nonprofit organization that builds costumes for children and youth in wheelchairs at no cost to families.
To be eligible for a Magic Wheelchair costume, a child must be between the ages of 5 and 17 and primarily use a wheelchair for mobility.
Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) – City of Chicago
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) provides education and training, benefits counseling, information and referral, direct services and more to help foster accessibility, full participation and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.
Its featured services and programs include a career center, home accessibility modifications program, an Accessibility Compliance Unit, transportation and parking, emergency preparedness and more. Visit the MOPD website for more information.
McLean County Functional Needs Registry
The McLean County Functional Needs Registry helps individuals with special needs during an emergency situation. The registration form documents the needs of people with physical, mental or medical limitations due to impaired vision, hearing or mobility, and language barriers. The program seeks to ensure that residents with functional needs get the assistance they need during a weather disaster or some other local emergency.
Registration for the program is free, voluntary and confidential. You can fill out an online form or print out a hardcopy registration form in English or Spanish on the registry website.