Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, presents significant challenges for individuals and their families. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, the financial strain associated with ALS care can be overwhelming. Recognizing this burden, the ALS United North Carolina (ALSU NC) offers vital support through the Als Care Grant Program. This program is specifically designed to assist North Carolina families in managing the out-of-pocket expenses that arise from living with ALS or Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), expenses that are often not covered by traditional insurance.
The ALS Care Grant Program aims to bridge the financial gap, providing reimbursement for essential services and equipment. Eligible expenses covered by the grant include, but are not limited to:
- Respite Care: Providing essential breaks for caregivers.
- Travel Costs: Facilitating access to specialized ALS clinics and research centers.
- Home Modifications: Adapting living spaces for handicap accessibility.
- Vehicle Modifications: Making vehicles handicap accessible for transportation needs.
- Communication Devices: Supporting communication for individuals with ALS.
- Environmental Control Units: Enhancing independence and comfort at home.
- Generators: Ensuring continuous power for critical breathing assistance equipment.
Eligibility for the ALS Care Grant Program
To be eligible for the ALS Care Grant Program, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Residency: The primary residence of the applicant must be in North Carolina.
- Diagnosis: A verified diagnosis of ALS or PLS is required. ALSU NC may request updated verification if clinic visits have not occurred within the past two years.
Understanding the Reimbursement Grant System
It’s important to understand that the ALS Care Grant Program operates on a reimbursement basis. Here are key details of the program’s structure:
- Reimbursement Limit: The program reimburses up to a maximum of $750 per period, with two periods available per year.
- Application Frequency: Applicants can submit reimbursement requests up to three times per period until the $750 cap is reached.
- Fund Availability: Reimbursements are subject to the availability of funds at the time of submission. Partial initial reimbursement does not guarantee subsequent payments up to the $750 limit.
- Timely Submission: Submitting reimbursement requests early in the period is highly recommended to maximize the chances of receiving funds, as funds may be depleted before the period ends.
Applying for the ALS Care Grant: A Step-by-Step Guide
To ensure your application for the ALS Care Grant Program is processed efficiently, please carefully follow these instructions:
Step 1: Verify Expense Eligibility
- Confirm that all expenses are for items listed on the ALS Eligible Expenses List.
- Ensure receipts are dated within 12 months prior to the submission date.
- Receipts must clearly show a description of the item or service and the date of purchase or service. For medical appointments, the receipt must specify the type of appointment and the date.
- Mileage logs (for ALS-related transportation) and Respite Care Provider logs (for non-professional respite care) are accepted as receipts when necessary forms are used.
- For online purchases from retailers like Amazon, submit a copy of the “order details” page instead of individual item images.
Step 2: Complete the Request for Funds Form
- Access and complete the online Request for Funds form available on the ALSU NC website.
- If online submission is not feasible, downloadable forms are available on the website for email or fax submission.
Step 3: Attach Receipt Copies
- Compile COPIES of all required receipts in PDF format.
- For Respite Care (non-professional) or Mileage reimbursements, download the specific forms, complete them, scan them, and upload them as PDF attachments along with other receipts.
- For respite care reimbursement, remember to include a copy of the care provider’s ID.
Step 4: Submission and Processing
- Submit your completed application and all supporting documents well in advance of any deadlines. This allows time to address any potential issues with your submission.
Step 5: Receiving Your Reimbursement
- Reimbursement checks are typically issued within 8 weeks of approval.
- Checks are void after 90 days and cannot be re-issued, so prompt deposit upon receipt is crucial.
- If you have not received your check after 8 weeks, contact Claudia Beirne at [email protected] or 919-390-0125 for assistance.
The ALS Care Grant Program by ALS United North Carolina provides a crucial lifeline for families facing the financial challenges of ALS. By understanding the program’s guidelines and application process, eligible individuals can access valuable financial support to enhance their quality of life and ease their caregiving journey.
