Help Getting Caregiver Aid

Caring for a loved one demands significant amounts of time, attention, patience, and dedication. Our Respite Program provides financial assistance to enable caregivers a break to attend a conference, event, or simply have an afternoon or evening away from caregiving.

How to Apply

Awards are granted on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible individuals. There is no fee to apply. Contact a Patient Services Representative at 203.616.4328 or email [email protected] to begin your application. Please be prepared to provide:

  • Your (the caregiver) name, phone, email, and address
  • The name, address, and date of birth of the loved one being cared for
  • The name and contact information for the physician who may provide confirmation of diagnosis

Who is Eligible?

The caregiver must:

  • Be an unpaid, non-professional family member or significant other of an individual with a rare diagnosis
  • Be a US citizen or permanent resident of the United States for at least six months with evidence of residency
  • Undergo a financial evaluation of need to determine if they fall within the program’s financial eligibility guidelines
  • Provide full-time care for an individual with a confirmed rare disease diagnosis

What Does the Program Provide?

A family member/significant other with financial assistance to hire a short-term respite caregiver. This respite caregiver may be:

  • Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
  • Home Health Aide (HHA)
  • Non-professional caregiver