Impact – CYF
When your child is diagnosed with a disability, it can be a long and lonely road. You are ensuring that The Arc Central Chesapeake Region will be there every step of the way: to guide parents, connect families to resources, and to empower everyone to feel confident and capable of helping their child thrive.
How are you impacting children, youth, and their families with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout your community?
Information, Referrals, & Connecting to Resources
kids receiving toys and food through the Holiday Giving program
dollars granted to the community through the Family Fund
grants for critical therapies, learning opportunities, and other enrichments through the Family Fund
I lost my job during COVID and knew this would be a hard holiday for us. The Holiday Giving Program saved Christmas for our family. The fact that someone cared for us this much brings tears to my eyes.
Virtual school just didn't work for my kids. We needed special technology that the school laptop couldn't handle. The Arc helped us get a new laptop and the technology I needed to help my boys learn in a way that fits them.
My son needs care 24/7. It's been difficult juggling his school and my job. Thankfully, I was able to get a grant from The Arc to pay for his care during the day while I work. That way, I could focus on being a mom when my day is done.
Jay started using a trampoline in therapy as a safe way for him to burn energy, so he doesn't become agitated. During COVID parks and gyms were closed, but The Arc gifted us trampolines to help Jay feel calm and focused.
My daughter was recently diagnosed. I had no idea what to do. I called The Arc, and they were an incredible resource. They made calls on my behalf and helped me find exactly what she needed.
Catherine was progressing well in therapy, then the pandemic hit. We were afraid she'd lose all the ground she'd gained. But with a grant from The Family Fund, we got her a similar bike. Now she's back on track - you should see her go!
My son, Alex, requires a specific therapy to be able to talk. It's $250 per session out of pocket. He goes twice a week. We wouldn't be able to afford his therapy without a grant from The Family Fund. Now, we're hanging on his every word.
The Holiday Giving program gave us more than just gifts. They gave us $100 grocery cards. I cannot begin to say how much that helped. My boys have strict specialty diets and I was able to put together a special holiday meal they were actually able to eat.
The Arc didn't let language be a barrier to helping e get the resources I needed. They worked with a translator to help me apply for the Family Fund. Knowing I can call on them and have my questions answered in a way I understand is a huge relief.
How can you continue to make a difference for children with disabilities every day?
Do you have a child with a disability or know someone that could benefit from The Arc’s programs and services? Please reach out to us directly at resources@thearcccr.org.