Making Good “Cents”
Programs are available to help families with the cost of meeting the child’s special needs. Some have rules about family income levels, while others are specifically for children with special health care needs and have no family income guidelines. Consider applying if you think your family and child could benefit.
We understand that when your child needs extra health, behavioral, or physical assistance, the cost for the services can create added family stress. Contact us or the numbers provided if you have questions regarding any of these funding programs.
Medicaid
This coverage includes well-child care such as dental, hearing and vision, as well as diagnosis, referrals and treatment by medical specialists or care providers. Be sure that you don’t overlook the regular exams and care even when you are managing the more intensive health needs of your child. Medicaid pays only after all other resources have been used. These benefits are provided to children through age 21.
Public Assistance Program Information Hotline:
Anchorage 269-5777 or Toll free 1-888-804-6330
Tax Equity & Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA)
You might think your child doesn’t qualify for Medicaid, but only your child’s income and resources are considered when you apply for TEFRA. Children who meet the eligibility criteria for the TEFRA Option qualify for Medicaid and all the services that any other child receiving Medicaid would receive. Medicaid covers many medical expenses such as doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, eyeglasses, wheelchairs, diapers for children over age three, therapies and medical supplies. The TEFRA Option is particularly helpful for families with high medical costs not covered by insurance.
Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP)
The Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) provides cash assistance and work services to low-income families with children to help them with basic needs while they work toward becoming self-sufficient.
Contact Information for Local Offices
E-mail: DPA Policy Staff
Phone:: (907) 465-3347
Short Term Assistance & Referral (STAR) Program
The STAR coordinator will help you identify and prioritize your family and child’s needs and assist you in obtaining supports. This program provides short-term assistance for your family. The STAR Coordinator will help fill out paperwork to help become eligible for other funds and help find other financial resources for you and your family. You can schedule time with a Stone Soup Group STAR Coordinator for more information.
For contact numbers in your community call: Division of Senior & Disabilities Services
(DSDS): Anchorage 269-3600 or Toll free 1-800- 478-9996
TDD 269-3624
Home & Community-Based Waivers
Medicaid Waivers use federal and state funds to pay for health care and family supports for people with certain health and/or developmental conditions. Waivers give states the option to design individual health care systems beyond those usually available through Medicaid. For more information, talk to your Case Manager, Care Coordinator or STAR Coordinator about eligibility requirements or call the Division of Senior & Disabilities Services (DSDS).
DSDS: Anchorage 269-3600
Toll free 1-800-770-3930 or TDD 269-3624
Alaska 211
No matter where you live in Alaska, Alaska 2-1-1 is your one-stop resource for connecting with a wide variety of vital resources in your community including emergency food and shelter, disability services, counseling, senior services, healthcare, child care, drug and alcohol programs, legal assistance, transportation needs, educational opportunities, and much more. Dial 2-1-1 or Toll free 1-800-478-2221
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
This federal program provides monthly income checks to children and adults who qualify under the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and family income limits. A Parent navigator may be able to help you fill out this application. It is also available online.
Toll free 1-800-772-1213
OTHER IDEAS:
Civics Groups, disability specific groups and church organizations are available in many communities in Alaska as well. These groups will often help offset gaps in support until longer term support comes through for a family.
Civic groups often take on special projects in their community. Those such as the Lions Club or the Knights of Columbus may have programs for specific needs. Disability and diagnosis specific groups are here to help as well. Autism Speaks, Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Children’s Miracle networks are just a few examples of the dozens that may be available to your family. In Alaska, your family may be eligible for assistance from Catholic Social Services and Lutheran Social Services or from eon of their local food or clothing pantries.
Your Stone Soup Group Parent Navigator will have a better idea of specific recommendations based on your family’s needs. Give them a call today!
