The Special
Needs Program seeks to address the full array of challenges faced by
children under age 18. Whether it is language therapy for a child with a
speech delay or dyslexia remediation for a child struggling to read, an
upgraded wheelchair for a physically handicapped child or behavior
training for a child with autism, a special school for a student with a
learning difference or a comprehensive assessment for ADHD, the JCRS
explores and addresses each situation individually, with sensitivity,
confidentiality, and respect.
The Application Process
The
application process begins with a phone conversation between the
parent(s) of the Special Needs child and the JCRS Special Needs Case
Manager. The family’s situation and the child’s needs are
thoroughly explored. Parents will then be asked to submit informational
records which serve to 1) document and assess the child’s special
need, 2) describe the proposed treatment, service, or facility for
addressing this need, and 3) explain the family’s need for
financial assistance.
All parents will be
asked to submit:
-
written letter of
request;
-
current federal tax
return;
-
proof of income;
-
completed financial
disclosure statement -
CLICK HERE
All information is confidential.
After the
documentation is received, the family’s request is reviewed by the JCRS
Special Needs Committee, which makes funding allocations. This committee
includes professionals in the fields of child psychiatry, child
psychology, social work, pediatrics, and special education.
Case Management
When a JCRS
subsidy is granted, payments are typically issued directly to schools
and service providers every month. During this period, progress reports
to the JCRS are required no less than once per quarter. At its
discretion, the JCRS may seek further diagnostic assessments of the
Special Needs child. The Special Needs Case Manager monitors each
child’s progress, addresses emerging problems, and provides ongoing
support.
Continuing Help
Special
Needs subsidies are granted for up to one year and can be renewed on a
case-by-case basis. Family financial data (including current tax return)
must be updated annually. There is no limit on the length of time that
a Special Needs child may receive subsidies from the JCRS; however, once
the individual attains young adulthood (usually age 18), s/he may be
eligible for a JCRS subsidy for independent life skills training,
vocational training, or college.
There is no
limit on the number of children within a family who may receive JCRS
subsidies.
Who We Help
Our Special Needs clients come from a
wide variety of Jewish backgrounds and family situations. Their
disabilities are physical, cognitive, developmental, emotional,
behavioral, or psychosocial. Many are being raised by single parents,
grandparents, or foster parents. Some are in residential care. Some are
new immigrants. Some children are still displaced by the 2005
hurricanes and others have a parent in the military. Many come from
dependent, at-risk families who struggle to provide the necessary care,
supervision and stability to meet their children’s needs. For all
children, JCRS funding plans are formulated on the totality of their
needs, their opportunities, and their resources.
Contact us
For information, or to contact us about a Special
Needs child, please call Bonnie Lustig, LCSW.
If your family or child is experiencing any of the problems noted and you
meet the general Eligibility Requirements shown on the Program
page, e-mail us at
