In 2012, there were over 12.1 percent disabled people in the US. Such people can contribute to the economy if they are provided with financial help, especially when many of them lose jobs due to their physical condition.
Uncle John is a senior citizen who is unable to walk, because of a serious road accident he met with a few years ago. Initially, the accident was a setback for him, as he found it difficult to go back to work. But, after consulting some of his friends and relatives, he came to know that, there are many grants and allowances for senior citizens with disability. By applying for one such program, he got the help sanctioned. And today, he is enjoying his life, just as before, with a smile on his face.
Financial aid for people with disabilities is of prime importance, as it can help them lead a good lifestyle and fulfill their daily needs. A person can suffer from disabilities at any time in his life, and they can be partial or permanent. In case the condition is very serious, the person might not be able to work, affecting his income. Considering this need, many governments around the world have come up with grants as financial help for the differently abled.
The Programs
There are many non-profit organizations, which provide financial help for such people without expecting anything in return. Some of these organizations are government controlled, while the rest are promoted by private business houses, or wealthy and successful individuals. Every year, these organizations seek contributions from people all round the world, so that they can meet the requirements of people who need help. They have their branches and zonal offices in almost all important cities and hence, you can consider contacting them, if you are in need. Another thing to note is that, help provided to the people is completely non-taxable.
Military service veterans can also benefit from such programs, especially the ones sponsored by the government. Handicapped veterans can take advantage of specially planned housing programs to build their own homes. Severely injured war veterans, who have suffered from burns can get full benefit of these housing grants. The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs does the task of rating these veterans with disabilities by taking into consideration their medical history. The compensation, which is to be given to the veteran, will be decided on the basis of the number of dependents on the veteran.
A scheme known as the ‘patriot express loan’ was useful for the veterans, who had an interest in setting up their own businesses. Under this scheme, the lending amount was as high as five hundred thousand dollars. This program expired in 2013, however, a new program called SBA Express Loan Program has been made available in January 2014, which provides loans up to $350,000.
As compared to loans advanced to other people, the interest rates on such loans are much less, making repayment much easier. Pension programs for the differently abled can also be greatly beneficial, due to consistent monthly inflow of money. Financial help has helped many veterans to live life with dignity and pride.
If you have been the differently abled for more than five months, then you can benefit from the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Special programs for women with disability can help them earn their livelihood, as some institutions take up the responsibility of teaching some money-making jobs to them. Financial help for mothers with disabilities in the form of grants and scholarships, helps them in bringing up their children in the right spirit. It should be noted that, disability insurance can be received by people of all age groups.
If you are a person who needs help, then you should approach the government authorities. Visiting various government websites such as www.grants.gov and www.disability.gov can help you explore more options.