Tips for Grant Applications
Between doctor's appointments, therapy sessions, after school programs, and so much more, the costs can become very overwhelming for families affected by autism. Applying for grants and scholarships can be a difficult and confusing process. To aide families in the application process, listed below are tips and tricks that will help guide you.
Review the application
Financial aid applications tend to be somewhat long and detailed when it comes to their requirements. They will ask for information such as tax statements, payment statement, IEP’s, etc.. Always review the application to make sure you provide the information they request and in the format they request, if not you may be denied. We’d recommend making a checklist to help you stay organized.
Be aware of what financial aid you’re applying for
Be aware that there are different financial aids available within the autism community and some of them offer financial aid for different kinds of therapies of services. Be sure to apply for the financial help that will benefit your family, don’t fill out an application that may not provide assistance for the therapy or program you are interested in.
Be honest and straightforward
Some financial aid applications may ask the parents for some personal information about the child, talk about your child and how important this financial help will be for your child and family. Be honest about your current situation, even include a picture of your child, this helps make the application much more personal and able to create a connection with the people reading the application.
Ask for recommendations letters
There are applications that don’t require letters of recommendation but will still accept them. Recommendation letters are a great way to provide additional information about your family from another person’s point of view.
Don’t give up if you don’t succeed the first time
Numerous families apply to financial aid applications each year and it is impossible for organizations to grant every one of them financial help. If you don’t qualify for financial aid for one application, don’t give up! Continue applying and also apply to other financial aid assistance. We suggest making a copy of every application you fill out as they often stay the same each year.
Be aware of deadlines
If you are requesting letters of recommendation or any type of documentation that requires time, make sure you request them in a timely manner. Complete the application and send it before the deadline. If you send an application after the deadline chances are it will be denied.