CHICAGO AUTISM NETWORK
THERAPY ASSISTANCE GRANTS

Applications for our Therapy Assistance Grant Program are currently closed. We accept applications every year between mid-August til October 1. If you are in need of financial assistance outside of this time period, please check our Financial Resources page to see grants and assistance from other organizations.

Therapy Assistance Grant FAQ

Who is eligible for a Therapy Assistance Grant?

For our 2025 Therapy Assistance Grant Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Have a permanent address in Illinois,

  • Have a current autism diagnosis from an MD or qualified psychologist (screeners and public school evaluations don’t count).

  • Have a household income lower than or equal to 200% of the the federal poverty level. (see application for specific numbers)

How is grant money distributed?

Grant money is distributed directly to service providers, up to the amount awarded. If you are approved for out-of pocket therapy costs, we will pay your therapy provider directly for approved therapy costs. If you are approved for help with insurance premiums, we will make monthly payments to your insurance provider up to the specified amount.

Which therapies are approved for coverage?

Therapy Assistance Grants will cover therapies that have proven effectiveness including the following:

  • Speech Therapy

  • Occupational Therapy

  • Physical Therapy

  • ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) Therapy

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

  • Educational/Developmental Therapy

  • Social Skills Group

  • Therapeutic Day School

  • Pharmacotherapy

  • Other Psychotherapy

Other forms of therapy are not covered under Therapy Assistance Grants. We also do not cover any fees (late fees, lunch fees, registration fees, etc.)

How do I submit my application?

We highly encourage you to email a PDF copy to info@chicagoautismnetwork.org. You can also or mail a hard copy to Chicago Autism Network, PO Box 804914, Chicago, IL 60680, but it must be received by October 1. Because of unpredictable mail delays, we highly encourage you to email your application if possible. Every year we have multiple applications arrive after the the due date that we are unable to process. If you are unable to submit using these methods, you can email info@chicagoautismnetwork and request a phone interview, and someone will fill out your application for you. If English is difficult for you, we will try our hardest to find a translator in your native tongue.

If you need additional financial assistance see our Financial Resources page.