Every child deserves the chance to reach their goals, realize their potential, and feel like they belong. 

For families raising children with disabilities, that often starts with the right support. But many of the services and resources that help children learn, grow, and connect can be expensive and out of reach. Families are left weighing what their child needs against what they can afford. 

The Family Fund helps bridge that gap. 

In 2026, the Family Fund awarded a record $136,071 to 116 Maryland families. From music therapy to summer camps, each grant helped a child build skills, make friends, and gain independence while giving their family relief and peace of mind. 

An Avenue to Access 

Fello launched the Family Fund in 2017 because more and more Maryland families were struggling to access the services and supports that can improve their children’s quality of life and shape their development for years to come. 

The Family Fund provides grants to Maryland families raising children with disabilities under the age of 21. Many of the resources these children need, including specialized therapies, communication devices, and adaptive equipment, aren’t covered by insurance. Families pay out of pocket, straining household finances and putting important opportunities out of reach.   

Confidence, connection, and independence are the building blocks of a life of dignity and choice. The Family Fund puts these resources within reach, helping remove financial barriers so children can learn, grow, and be part of their communities. 

Reaching More Families Every Year 

2026 was our biggest year yet, and since the program began, we’ve distributed more than half a million dollars to families across Maryland. 

Behind every grant is a unique story: a child who gained access to the right resource at the right time. What matters most is giving each child the chance to discover who they are and what they can do. When that happens, the impact reaches the entire family. 

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity. Your support has made a real and lasting difference in my son’s life. Because of your kindness, he has access to sensory tools that help him regulate, learn, and feel safe every day. As a parent, no words can fully express how much it means to know people care enough to support families like ours. Your gift has given us hope, relief, and opportunities that we otherwise may not have had.” 

“With all our hearts, we are grateful. Even though my son cannot express it in words, he shows his appreciation with a smile in every one of his classes.” 

“Thank you so much for being a caring, giving, and loving person. Through you, my son was able to get some extra help and support. Without your generosity, I don’t know how we could have done it. I am ever grateful and thankful for you.” 

Support in Action 

Each year, Fello publishes Because of You, a look at the children behind the grants. Inside, you’ll find stories of progress, discovery, and achievement that show what access makes possible.  

The latest edition celebrates a few of the 2026 recipients. You’ll catch up with Tanner, who has grown in confidence and communication through weekly music therapy since we first shared his story last year. You’ll meet Bethany, who proved that no school subject is too tough when the right support is nearby. And you’ll get to know Thor and Mateo, who discovered what it feels like to belong in a supportive environment.  

Each story offers a glimpse into the resilience, strength, and promise every child holds, and the difference Family Fund supporters make. 

Explore Because of You to see the lives changed through the Family Fund. 

Powered by Generosity 

The Family Fund is a true community effort. Every grant is funded by donors who believe children with disabilities deserve the opportunities, resources, and support they need to learn, grow, and live the lives they choose. 

Each year, the Family Fund reaches more children and families, but the need grows as our impact grows. In 2026, we received more than 470 applications for 116 grants, and we expect even more families to reach out when applications for the 2027 Family Fund open on February 1. 

Because of you, children are building confidence, families are finding hope, and communities are becoming more inclusive. Now is the time to be part of an effort that’s changing lives. Your gift to the Family Fund helps ensure every child has the chance to learn, grow, and be themselves.