Fello is pleased to announce that applications for the Family Fund will open on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This year, Fello plans to distribute approximately $132,000, setting a new record for the most money awarded by the Family Fund since its founding in 2017.  

What is the Family Fund? 

The Family Fund is a grant program designed to give children with disabilities access to resources and services that can make a meaningful difference in their lives. Families can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to help cover costs for therapies, adaptive equipment, educational programs, respite care, camps, and other services that improve the quality of their child’s life. 

For many families, these supports are out of reach financially and are often not covered by insurance. Without them, children miss critical opportunities to develop skills, explore new experiences, or simply live more independently. 

“I see too many families debating whether to pay for speech therapy or groceries, electric bills or leg braces,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “The boost that the Family Fund provides—whether that’s a few hundred dollars or the full $2,000—means everything to the families who need it most.” 

The Family Fund Creates Brighter Futures 

The Family Fund was created in 2017 because Fello saw a clear need: families of children with disabilities face tough financial choices that no parent should have to make. The fund ensures that every dollar raised goes directly back to supporting children—creating access to life-changing therapies, adaptive tools, and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. 

The impact of the Family Fund extends beyond individual families—it strengthens communities, empowers children, and provides a tangible way for donors to see the difference their contributions make. 

Read about some of the families who received a Family Fund grant last year, and the impact it made on their lives.  

Apply for the Family Fund Starting February 1 

Applications for the 2026 Family Fund open February 1 and will remain open until February 21, 2026. Families with children who have disabilities under the age of 21 are encouraged to apply. 

The application process is designed to be straightforward and supportive. Families are asked to share information about their child, their needs, and how the Family Fund grant will make a meaningful difference for their child. Each application is then reviewed carefully by a committee to ensure that grants are awarded to children who will benefit the most. 

Fello’s team is available to support families with the application process, if needed. If you have questions about eligibility, need help completing the application, or want guidance on what information to include, please contact resources@fello.org.  

A Growing Legacy of Support 

Since its launch, the Family Fund has grown from distributing $14,000 in its first year to awarding over $113,600 to 96 children in 2025 for therapies, educational assistance, respite care, camps, and more. 

“We are incredibly grateful that the community sees the need for this program and understands its importance,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “The Family Fund has grown tremendously every year thanks to the generous gifts of donors in our community.” 

Every dollar raised for the Family Fund is granted back to the community, helping ensure that more children have access to the supports and opportunities they need to thrive. 

Support for Every Family 

While the Family Fund provides critical financial support, every family can access guidance, resources, and programs through Fello’s Children, Youth, & Their Families services, even if they are not awarded a grant. Families can explore other therapies, respite care options, educational support, and community programs tailored to their child’s needs. 

“We know that not every family will receive a Family Fund grant, but that doesn’t mean support isn’t available,” said Sara. “We encourage families to reach out, connect with our team, and learn about the many resources that can help their child thrive.” 

Fello staff are available to answer questions, provide guidance, and connect families with resources that meet their child’s needs. Families can contact resources@fello.org for personalized support at any time.