In February 2023, Youngcare, in collaboration with our generous foundation partner Suncorp, and our continued relationship with Tradelink, ALS Global, The Co-Group, The Stan & Maureen Duke Foundation, Une Parkinson and UDIA Qld, opened the National At Home Care Grant. This initiative is in its 5th year and aims to provide funding for equipment, home modifications and essential support that is unable to be funded through other means (eg. NDIS). This funding is to both enhance the quality of life for young people with high physical care needs and assist them to remain living in their own home with loved ones.
The grant application process opened on February 15th and closed on March 30th, 2023. During this period, Youngcare received a total of 123 applications from across six different states and territories throughout Australia. After four applications were withdrawn, 119 were presented to the panel for review.
The panel, comprising of 13 representatives from Youngcare, corporate supporters, funding bodies, and professionals from the disability sector, met on April 21st. The meeting was filled with lively discussions and eye-opening experiences, leading to the approval of 49 applications. A total of $338,377 was allocated to these successful applicants.
Among the success stories is Melanie, a 19-year-old woman living with multiple health conditions. Melanie applied for $10,000 towards the purchase of an accessible vehicle, which was approved. This vehicle will enable her to remain at home under her mother’s care, access day services/programs, social outings, and possible employment, and easily attend medical appointments and therapy sessions.
Another inspiring story is of Jacob, an 18-year-old living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Jacob and his family applied for funding to cover the cost of a therapy table. This piece of equipment will prove to be life-changing for Jacob and his family, and the request was approved by the panel.
While not all applications were successful, those not funded were provided with feedback and, in some cases, were linked to alternative funding sources or support. This initiative by Youngcare and its partners is a testament to the power of community support and the difference we all can make in the lives of individuals in need.
Stay tuned for more updates on future rounds of the National At Home Care Grant. Together, we can create change.
If you or someone you know would love to find out more about applying for a Youngcare Grant, please visit the Youngcare website or call Youngcare Connect on 1800 844 727
