Medical/Health Resources
The Kids Equipment Network (TKEN) is a non-profit organization connecting children with disabilities with new and gently-used durable, adaptive equipment at no cost. Illinois families with children from birth to 21 can fill out an application to request equipment. TKEN then seeks equipment matching the child’s needs. The family is invited to a fitting clinic when the equipment becomes available.
Volunteers provide free monthly clinics for custom-fitting equipment in Chicago and the suburbs. Families can request items including:
- Strollers
- Wheelchairs
- Bath and toilet systems
- Crutches
- Canes and more
The Little Resource Center in Carbondale
The Little Resource Center (TLRC) provides free health, safety, and well-being services to strengthen and empower families, parents, and caregivers. TLRC services and programs are free. Help includes infant and postpartum care items, classes and webinars on various wellness topics, and referrals to other needed services. The Little Resource Center’s support includes:
- Short-term diaper and formula assistance
- Events, classes and support groups for families, caregivers and expecting parents
- Referrals to healthcare providers, social service agencies and community-based agencies for resources
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry Pediatric Special Needs Dentistry
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry Pediatric Dental Care provides comprehensive dental care for children including individuals with complex oral health needs and special developmental and behavioral care needs. Pediatric Dentistry clinics provide care for children from infancy through adolescence (under age 17), including:
- Comprehensive oral health examinations, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, sealants, restorative procedures (fillings, crowns, etc.)
- Extractions and minor surgical procedures
- Urgent care (trauma, infection, etc.) and more
These services can be completed using inhalation sedation (Nitrous oxide), moderate sedation and general anesthesia. Read more about pediatric services.
Social stories are also available to help children with autism or sensory issues get ready for a dental visit:
U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is the nation’s leading science-based, data-driven, service organization that protects the public’s health. The CDC provides up-to-date information and resources on topics such as nutrition, diseases and conditions, healthy living, violence and safety, detecting and responding to new and emerging health threats, and more.
United Leukodystrophy Foundation
The United Leukodystrophy Foundation (ULF) is a nonprofit providing leukodystrophy patients and their families with support and resources. ULF can help families with finding medical care, genetic counseling, networking and financial assistance. It also provides funding for medical research each year.
ULF is based in Dekalb, Ill. Its Services and supports also include:
- Leukodystrophy frequently-asked questions and a glossary of terms
- Clinical trials
- Virtual caregiver support groups
- The Hultman Memorial Fund for families facing financial hardship
- Webinars and an annual family conference
The United Spinal Association empowers and advocates for wheelchair users and people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) nationwide. The organization provides local chapters, disability resources, peer support, a manual wheelchair guide and app, a health equity checklist and toolkit and more. Its resources include:
- The United Spinal Association of Illinois
- Peer support groups and mentorship programs (in-person or virtual)
- Equipment or supply closet/loan program
- Regular social events and activities
- Individual grants to members
- The Disability Etiquette Guide to download and share
United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter
The United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter (USAIC) is a non-profit offering information and support resources for people paralyzed by trauma and medical conditions. It also serves family members and health care and related professionals serving the spinal cord injury community. USAIC is located in Palos Heights but provides information, events and educational programs statewide. Its programs include:
- Virtual and in person peer support groups
- The “Living with Spinal Cord Injury” program for health professionals and health science students
- “Injury Prevention” for school children, seniors and other groups featuring members’ experiences, and information on preventing injuries and falls
- Advocacy and more
Vaccine Information for Parents With Children With Disabilities
Vax for All provides vaccine information and other helpful tips for parents and caregivers of a child with autism and other disabilities. Resources on the website include:
- Stories, videos and other kid-friendly disability resources
- How vaccines work – explanations for children and adults
- A vaccine appointment scheduling tool
- Information about in-home vaccine appointments for children in Illinois
Parents may text HELLO to (260) VAX-4ALL / (260) 829-425 to find information or chat.
Para obtener información sobre cómo vacunar a su hijo, envíe un mensaje de texto con HOLA al (260) 829-4255.
Hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and VaccineFinder from Boston Children’s Hospital, Vaccines.gov provides information and help with:
- Finding recommended vaccines for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, the flu and RSV
- Making an appointment
- Answering frequently asked questions about the vaccines
WCG CenterWatch Clinical Trials
WCG CenterWatch can help clinical trial participants and caregivers identify clinical research opportunities and take the first steps to participate.