Resources

Medicaid & Waiver Programs (State-Specific)

 

 

If your child qualifies for Medicaid or special waiver programs, you may be eligible for therapy services, in-home support, respite care, and more. These programs vary by state, so it’s important to check your local options.

🔗 NC Medicaid – For families in North Carolina, this is where you can learn about Medicaid eligibility, services, and how to apply.

💡 Tip: Ask your child’s case manager or school if you qualify for additional support under a Medicaid Waiver. Many families don’t know what’s available to them!

ESA+ & Opportunity Scholarship Information

 

North Carolina offers two scholarship programs that can help families pay for private school, tutoring, therapy, and educational tools—especially for students with special needs or learning differences.

🔗 ESA+ (Education Student Accounts) – This program provides funding for students with disabilities to use on approved educational expenses like tutoring, curriculum, speech therapy, and more.

🔗 Opportunity Scholarship – This scholarship helps families cover tuition at eligible private schools in North Carolina.

💡 Tip: Many families qualify for both! Applications usually open in early spring, and funding is limited—so apply early.

🧩 Autism Speaks Toolkits

These free, downloadable toolkits cover everything from getting an autism diagnosis to teaching daily routines, managing behaviors, navigating transitions, and planning for adulthood. They’re easy to read, practical, and created with families in mind.

🔗 Browse All Toolkits

💡 Popular picks:

• 100 Day Kit (for new diagnoses)

• Advocacy Toolkit

• Transition to Adulthood Toolkit

• Dental Guide

• Sleep Strategies

ABLE Accounts

ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money for future expenses—without losing their eligibility for Medicaid or SSI. These tax-advantaged savings accounts can be used for education, housing, therapy, job training, transportation, and more.

🔗 Learn More About ABLE Accounts

💡 Why it matters: Families can save up to $100,000 without affecting benefits, and contributions can come from parents, grandparents, or even the individual themselves. It’s a great way to plan for your child’s future while protecting their support.