Resources for Children with Complex Medical Needs
The team at Children's Mercy Beacon Program has collected a range of resources to help families find extended support within the community. These resources provide useful tips and information about technology, community assistance, food services and mental health.
Educational/employment supports
Ability KC Therapeutic Preschool
Preschool for children with and without disabilities.
Britain Infant Development Center
(913) 676-2000
Offers baby, toddler and preschool classes and many other programs.
Child Care Aware MO
(800) 200-9017
Child Care Aware KS
(855) 750-3343
Children's Center for the Visually Impaired
(816) 841-2284
Kansas Head Start Association
(785) 856-3132
Mid-America Regional Council (MARC)
(816) 841-3382
Missouri call to enroll in Head Start.
United4Children
1 (800) 467-2322
Has inclusion specialists who can meet your daycare to provide support.
Contact your local school district to enroll in preschool programming.
*See Early Intervention section for additional resources regarding daycare.
Adult Daycare listing in Missouri
Adult Day Supports in Johnson County, KS
Life Unlimited
(816) 678-4280
The “My Day” program is from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at two locations in the Kansas City Northland.
*Contact your Medicaid waiver support coordinator through your local Community Developmental Disability Organization or Kansas City Regional Office for a list of day programs available. For more information about Medicaid waivers, see the Waiver resource section.
Ability KC Therapeutic Preschool
(816) 751-7700
Provide medical, therapeutic and educational services to children ages 1-5 years old.
Children's Therapeutic Learning Center
(816) 751-7700
Offers home-based education, therapeutic preschool and outpatient services/therapies to children.
First Steps
1 (866) 583-2392
Offers services to children from birth to 3 years with disabilities or developmental delays.
Healthy Families America
(312) 663-3520
Home visiting until 3rd birthday if enroll prenatally or w/in 3 months of birth.
Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County
(913) 432-2900
Kansas Head Start Association
(785) 856-3132
Lakemary Infant-Toddler Lakemary Center: Miami county
(913) 294-4343
Mid-America Regional Council (MARC)
(816) 841-3382
Missouri call to enroll in Early Head Start.
Parents as Teachers
(314) 432-4330
Check with local school district to enroll.
The Team for Infants Endangered by Substance Abuse (TIES) Program
(816) 234-3670
Wyandotte County KS and Jackson County MO, home based services referrals accepted up to 6 months post-partum and served until child is 2 years.
Kansas Infant-Toddler Services
1-800-CHILDREN
Use this resource to locate your local early intervention center in Kansas.
Tiny-k Early Intervention-Douglas County
(785) 843-3059
Wyandotte County Infant-Toddler Services
(913) 627-5500
*See Daycare/Preschool section for additional resources regarding early intervention.
Ability KC Employment Services
Provides employment opportunities and vocational rehabilitation to individuals with a range of disabilities.
Expanding College for Exceptional Learners
(816) 363-4968
Integrates people with intellectual disability (ID) into KC community through higher education.
Financial Resources and Discounts for Students with Disabilities
Guide to various financial resource, discounts, saving opportunities, and travel tips for students with disabilities.
Johnson County Community College CLEAR Program
(913) 469-3247
Non-credit continuing education classes for adults with mild developmental disabilities or other cognitive disabilities.
Kansas Vocational Rehabilitation
1 (866) 213-9079
Missouri Department of Education Postsecondary Transition
(573) 751-5739
Provides information on transition options, programs, resources, trainings and community efforts.
Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation
(816) 889-2581
MO Association of People Supporting Employment
Provides training and advocacy to improve and expand integrated employment opportunities, services and outcomes for people with disabilities.
MO Rehab Services for the Blind
1 (800) 592-6004
Project Rise
(816) 983-6994
Employment, volunteer, job preparation program through Children's Mercy for patients 15 years and older.
University of Central Missouri THRIVE Program
(660) 543-4204
Program for young adults with intellectual disability/developmental disability (ID/DD) to participate in 2 year residential college experience, building skills to transition from home to independence.
Families Together Inc
(888) 815-6364
Provide educational support to families in Kansas and their children with disabilities and special health care needs.
Kansas Department of Education
(785) 296-3201
MPACT
(800) 743-7634
Empower Missouri families to advocate for themselves so children with special education needs can reach their full potential in education and life.
Other community programs
Absolute Access and Elevator
(816) 447-7511
Stairlifts, home elevators, vertical wheelchair lift and dumbwaiters.
Access Elevators and Lifts
1 (800) 397-4000
Lift sales and installation.
Accessibility Remodeling
(913) 831-4444
Services: Home modification.
Affordable Mobility Solutions
(316) 262-8267
In Wichita, sells and finances accessible vans and mobility scooters.
Amramp
(888) 715-7598
Wheelchair ramps, lifts and more. Free evaluation and estimate.
AMS Vans
(800) 775-8267
Sells wheelchair accessible vans.
Banner Mobility Resources
(785) 235- 3070
In Topeka, sell mobility equipment and vehicles.
BraunAbility
1 (800) 488-0359
Services: Vehicle modification.
Country Home Elevator and Stair Lift
1 (888) 869-8883
Services: Lift installation.
Doctor’s Equipment
(816) 523-6644
Medical and accessibility equipment.
Four Seasons Sunrooms—Bath Planet (KS & MO)
(816) 524-2770
Services: Bathtub modification.
Health and Comfort
(816) 472-1100
Services: Stair, platform and vehicle lift sales and installation.
Home Access Remodeling
(913) 745-3069
Services: home modification and remodeling.
KC Lift and Elevator
(913) 327-5557
Services: Elevator, stir/ceiling, porch life installation and sales.
Lifewise CMH (Clinical Home Modifications)
(913) 380-4246
Services: Home modification (also does home assessments with OT).
Missouri Stairway Lift Corporation
1 (800) 392-2591
Services: Home modification.
Mobility First
(816) 350-7600
Services: Home and vehicle modification.
Mobility Works
(877) 275-4907
In Wichita, sell and rent wheelchair accessible vans.
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association
(866) 948-8341
Assists you in locating a certified dealer for adaptive vehicle.
New Mobility Solutions
(517) 768-0248
Services: Private Vehicle dealer in Michigan.
Paulding Mobility
(816) 326-8620
Services: Vehicle modification.
Prairie View Incorporated
1 (800) 554-7267
Services: Ramp installation.
Purple Ribbon Mobility LLC
(678) 572-4410
A small accessibility dealership run by a special needs family in Atlanta, Ga.
The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists
(866) 672-9466
Locate mobility equipment dealers.
United Access
1 (888) 939-1010
Services: Vehicle modification and sales.
*See Home and Vehicle Modification Funding and Transportation sections for additional resources regarding accessibility.
American Association of People with Disabilities
(880) 840-8844
Ensuring economic self-sufficiency and political empowerment for those with disabilities.
Americans with Disabilities Act
1 (800) 514-0301
Epilepsy Foundation of MO & KS
1 (800) 972-5163 or 1 (800) 264-6970
Supports to those with epilepsy/seizures.
Great Plains ADA Center
1 (800) 949-4232
Provides guidance to all on how to apply ADA standards to public services.
MO Governor's Council on Disability
1 (800) 877-8249
Hosts an online disability portal to connect individuals with local, state and national disability resources.
Partners in Policymaking
1 (800) 500-7878
Leadership training program sponsored by Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council for self-advocates and parents of individuals with disabilities.
People First of MO
1 (800) 558-8652
Organization formed and run by people with developmental disabilities that provides members with advocacy and self-determination development and peer support.
Rare KC
Advocacy for individuals with rare genetic conditions and diseases and their families.
The ARC of Missouri
Works to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have access to the supports and services they need to live successfully in their communities.
Children’s Mercy CARE Workshops
(816) 855-1720
Child-adult relationship enhancement workshops to strengthen parent/caregiver bond and increase positive behavior.
Complex Child
Monthly online magazine written by parents.
Courageous Parents Network
Destination created by parents to support, guide, and strengthen families that are caring for a seriously ill child.
Families Together Inc
(888) 815-6364
Provide educational support to families in Kansas and their children with disabilities and special health care needs.
Grace Church SOAR Special Needs Ministry
(913) 814-7223
Events and services for families with special needs.
Hopekids
(816) 372-0311
Ongoing events and activities for children with life threatening conditions and their families.
Missouri Family to Family
(800) 444-0821
Resource navigators and peer mentors.
Parents Offering Parent Support/Peer Mentor Program
(816) 302-8229
Children's Mercy program that is network of trained parent volunteers who mentor other parents through the challenged of their child's health condition.
Sandwiched KC
(816)-472-9178
Information, support groups, education, and self-care activities for family caregivers.
Supporting You
(785) 296-8625
Provides peer supports for Kansas.
Turning Point
(913) 574- 0900
Family and child life programing
68 Inside Sports Inclusive Program
(913) 888-9247
AbilityKC
(816) 513-7624
Adaptive swimming lessons for children ages 3-10 years old. Financial assistance available. Also provides driving rehabilitation.
Access II Independent Living Center
(660) 663-2423
Independent Living Center for Ray County, Mo.
Accessible Sports of Greater Kansas City Services
A website that lists many athletic and social programs that are inclusive for people of all abilities.
American Camp Association
(800) 428-2267
Search engine to find camps.
Challenged Athletes
(858) 866-0959
Provides opportunities and support to people with physical challenges, so they can pursue active lifestyles through physical fitness and competitive athletics.
Double H Ranch
(518) 696-5676
Camp for children with medical needs and their siblings in New York.
Families Together Inc.
(888) 815-6364
Inclusive Playgrounds
List of Kansas City’s best inclusive parks and playgrounds.
Independence, Inc.
(785) 841-0333
Independent Living Center for Douglas County, Kan.
Kansas City Ballet
Adaptive dance programs.
KC Treadz-Wheelchair Basketball
(816) 824-2370
Midnight Farm
(785) 979-1889
Accessible trails, horse drawn wagon rides, pumpkin and blueberry patches, accessible camp site, animal petting, disability accessible trails.
Midwest Adaptive Sports
(816) 287-2011
Missouri Family to Family
(800) 444-0821
Resource Center for Independent Living
(785) 242-1805
Independent Living Center for Miami County, Kan.
Special Needs Scouting
Traditional scouting for boys 6-adult and girls 14-adult.
Special Olympics Kansas
(913) 236-9290
Special Olympics Missouri
(913) 789-0330
The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists
(866) 672-9466
Locate certified driving rehabilitation specialists.
The Whole Person Adaptive Sports Program
(816) 627-2229
The Whole Person
(816) 561-0304
Independent Living Center for Cass, Clay, Jackson, and Platte County (Mo.) and Johnson, Leavenworth, and Wyandotte County (Kan.).
West Central Independent Living Solutions
(660) 422-7883
Independent Living Center for Lafayette County, Mo.
YMCA Challenger Program
(816) 561-9622
*Contact your local Parks and Recreation Department to ask about any programming for special needs.
Autism Society of the Heartland
(913) 706-0042
Provides support, education, and advocacy for the autism community.
Children’s Mercy Autism Clinic
(816) 234-3674
Resources, newsletter, and live events for the autism community and families.
Down Syndrome Innovations
Support and services to enable people with Down syndrome to live to their fullest potential.
Jett Foundation
(781) 585-5566
Family workshops and support groups for families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
1(800)374-2138 or (800)539-2660
Support groups, family courses, resources and info to families of children with mental health needs.
Ollie’s Branch
Program that provides 8 free therapy sessions to families affected by pediatric heart disease.
Rare KC
Support for those whose children have rare genetic conditions and diseases.
*Consider searching Facebook for support groups related to various diagnoses.
American Red Cross
1 (800) 733-2767
Disaster safety for people with disabilities
Arcare
(913) 648-0233
Helps people set up advanced planning and trusts.
Disability Rights Center of Kansas
1 (877) 776-1541
Great Plains ADA Center
(573) 882-3600
Federally-funded by the ADA, provides technical assistance and education and training.
Justice in the Schools
(816) 945-7736
Legal help for anything that may negatively affect school attendance in the Kansas City and Hickman Mills school districts.
Kansas Bar Association
1 (800) 928-3111
Search tool to find attorneys.
Kansas CASA
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are volunteers that advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in courtrooms and communities. Find your local CASA program.
Kansas Legal Services
(913) 621-0200
Help low and moderate income Kansans through legal and mediation services.
Legal Aid of Western Missouri
(816) 474-6750
Free legal representation to low income citizens.
Missouri Bar Association
1 (888) 253-6013
Search tool to find attorneys.
Missouri CASA
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are volunteers that advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in court rooms and communities. Find your local CASA program.
Missouri Legal Services
Four regional centers provide legal services for individuals with low-income or disabled.
Missouri Protection & Advocacy Services
(800) 392-8667
Special Needs Alliance
Use to locate an attorney that knows the intricacies of special needs law.
*You may want to check with your employer regarding employee benefits for legal services.
Angel Flight
(918) 749-8992
Provides flights for children to obtain medical treatment.
Cerner Charitable Foundation
(816) 201-1569
Funding for DME, travel, vehicle lifts and other health care costs.
Children’s Flight of Hope
(919) 466-8593
Provides flights to specialized medical care for children in need.
Miracle Flights
(800) 359-1711
Medical air travel and flights to obtain service dogs.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City (816) 842-8321
Lodging for families with children in the hospital. Families must apply through the website. Social worker referral is no longer needed.
4 Paws For Ability
(937) 374-0385
Provides service dogs.
Assistance Dogs International
Shows you accredited service animal schools.
Canine Companions for Independence
1 (800) 572-2275
Provides assistance dogs free of charge to recipients.
Domesti-PUPS
1 (866) 515-PUPS
Provides therapy dogs, service dogs and rescue dogs.
KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc
(785) 325-2256
National Network Information, Guidance, and Training on the Americans with Disability Act
1 (800) 949-4232
Reviews owners' rights and responsibilities where service animals are allowed, etc.
Optimist Club of Kansas City
(816) 433-4850
May be able to help with funding for service animal.
The Whole Person
(816) 627-2217
Sheila Styron, Blindness Low Vision Specialist has a lot of knowledge about service animals and is a helpful person to contact if you have questions.
US Department of Justice
FAQs on service animals and the ADA.
Talk to disease specific advocacy groups for other sibling support resources such as groups or scholarships.
HopeKids
(816) 372-0311
Ongoing events and activities for children with life threatening conditions and their families
Turning Point
(913) 574-0900
Family and child life programming
Center for Practical Bioethics
(816) 221-1100
Information on advanced directives, resuscitation orders, advanced care planning.
Got Transition
(202) 769-0486
Many resources on the transition from pediatric to adult care.
Hulme Resources
Transition planning assistance program for individuals with intellectual/developmental disability diagnosis. Free for Jackson Co. and Platte Co. residents, also available through Medicaid Waiver throughout Northwest MO.
Missouri Family to Family
1 (800) 444-0821
Lifecourse materials, information packets specific to diagnoses, guardianship stoplight decision making tool.
Transition to Adulthood
(816) 760-5550
Children’s Mercy’s program and resource center for helping patients transition to adult care, guardianship or supportive decision making.
Please communicate with your waiver support coordinator for list of options.
Independence Inc
(785) 841-0333
Organization to maximize independence of people with disabilities in Lawrence and Northeast Kansas.
Kansas Centers for Independent Living
1 (833) 765-2003
Federally mandated centers provide info, advocacy, and access to supports and services based on principles of consumer choice and control.
Life Unlimited
(816) 456-5940
Community living with individualized support to help reach their maximum level of independence, self-direction, community inclusion and fulfillment while living in the home of their choice.
Missouri Statewide Independent Living Centers
1 (888) 667-2117
Federally mandated centers provide info, advocacy, and access to supports and services based on principles of consumer choice and control.
MO Inclusive Housing Development Corporation
(855) 444-5100
Accessible and affordable housing to those with disabilities.
The Whole Person
(816) 561-0304
Independent Living Center for Cass, Clay, Jackson, and Platte County (MO) and Johnson, Leavenworth, and Wyandotte County (KS).
*See Community Involvement section for additional resources regarding supportive living.
If your child has Medicaid, contact the number on the back of their insurance card for taxi transportation assistance to medical appointments as well as mileage reimbursement. Medicaid can also help in securing long distance travel to out of town approved medical appointments for patient and a caregiver. Talk to your social worker at your doctor's office if you need transportation assistance or if travel is not offered through your private insurance.
Children's Mercy Car Seat Program
(816) 234-1607
eSpecial Needs
1 (877) 664-4565
Adaptive equipment & special needs car seats.
Cerner Charitable Foundation
(816) 201-1569
Funding for travel costs for medical needs.
Kansas Department of Health and Environment
(785) 291-3092
Possible special needs car seat funding.
KS Dept of Revenue Division of Vehicle Services
(785) 368-8222
Disabled parking placard.
Missouri Dept of Revenue
(573) 526-3669
Disabled parking placard.
Operating Above the Standard (OATS)
(888) 875-6287
Disability transportation service in various counties in Missouri.
RideKC Freedom
(816) 842-9070
KC metro public transportation program providing door to door service.
Safe Kids Kansas
(785) 296-4491
Possible car seat funding.
Transportation Security Administration
(866) 289-9673
Helpline to assist air travelers with disabilities.
*See Home and Vehicle Modification Funding and Accessibility sections for additional resources regarding transportation
Kansas Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
1 (800) 922-5330
Kansas City Anti-Violence Project
(816) 561-0550
LGBTQ-specific.
Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
1 (800) 392-3738
National Human Trafficking Hotline
1 (888) 373-7888
Rose Brooks
(816) 523-5550
South Kansas City shelter.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
1 (800) 799-7233
Veronica's Voice
(816) 483-7101
Sex trafficking support.
BADF Life Hunts
(205) 394-1072
Hunting trips.
Beads of Courage
(520) 344-7668
Medical story telling through beads. Ask your treating provider if their clinic has a bead program.
Believe in Tomorrow Children's Foundation
(410) 744-1032
Respite housing.
Bert’s Big Adventure
(678) 929-8474
Provides five-day, all-expenses-paid trips to Walt Disney World for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families.
Children's Wish Foundation International
(800) 323-WISH
Cody’s Wheels of Hope
(814) 460-8228
Provides bicycles, riding toys and safety helmets for children with life-threatening diseases.
Do It For The Love
(844) 484-3568
Concerts.
Dream Factory of Greater Kansas City
(913) 905-2900
Icing Smiles
(443) 420-7096
Custom cakes.
Kids Wish Network
(888) 918-9004
McLindon Family Foundation
(225) 456-3505
Provides adaptive bikes for children with special needs.
Merlin's Magic Wand
Tickets to Merlin Entertainments.
Morgan's Wonderland
(210) 495-5888
Accessible theme park in Texas.
Special Spaces
(865) 249-6079
Bedroom makeovers.
Stepping Stones for Stella- Buggies for Life
(617) 785-0076
Provides buggies to children with disabilities to ensure they and their families experience joy and freedom of being outdoors.
Sunshine Foundation
(215) 396-4770
TinySuperheroes
Superhero capes.
United Special Sportsman Alliance
(715) 884-2256
Outdoor adventures.
Variety KC
(913) 558-2309
Go Baby Go! Program that provides modified toy ride-cares to children with special needs.
Health care resources
Please visit our Finding an Adult Care Doctor page for lists of adult specialty providers. It is also advised that you contact your insurance for referrals. Ask your current providers whom they would recommend for adult care.
Community Health Centers
Centers provide health and dental care to people of all ages whether or not they have health insurance or money to pay for care.
Got Transition
(202) 769-0486
Resources on the transition from pediatric to adult care.
Transition to Adulthood
(816) 760-5550
Children’s Mercy’s program and resource center for helping patients transition to adult care, guardianship or supportive decision making.
Association of CMHCs of Kansas, Inc
Map of local community mental health centers by county.
Behavioral Health Specialists
(913) 906-9559
Compassionate Friends
(877) 969-0010
Support groups and educational information for families who have lost a child at any age.
Child & Family Mental Health Services at Children's Mercy
(816) 760-8881
Congenital Heart Defects Families Association (CHD-FA)
Support group in KC for CHD families.
Developmental and Behavioral Health at Children's Mercy
(816) 234-3674
Information on Applied Behavior Analysis through Autism Speaks
(888) 288-4762
Keeler Women's Center
(913) 906-8990
Counseling, massages, English as a second language (ESL) classes and women's groups.
KU Medical Center Center for Child Health & Development
(913) 588-6300
Lakemary
(913) 557-4000
Outpatient therapy for emotional regulation, social interactions, impulse control, obsessive thoughts/behaviors, anger management and grief. Therapy for children or adults with ID and mental health concerns.
Metropolitan Organization to Combat Sexual Abuse (MOCSA)
(816) 531-0233
Advocacy and counseling for sexual abuse survivors.
Missouri Department of Mental Health
Search for local community mental health centers by county.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Missouri
(800) 374-2138
Offers support groups, family courses and resources to families of children with mental health needs at no charge.
National Parent Helpline
1 (855) 427-2736
Psychology Today
Search engine to find a local therapist.
Sisters by Heart
Resources and support for mother of children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).
The Family Conservancy
(913) 742-4357
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Turning Point
(913) 574-0900
Family and child life programming, online resilience toolbox.
Ability KC
(816) 751-7700
Assessment and device ordering.
Kansas Assistive Technology-Northeast Site
(785) 267-1717
See/try devices, get help funding a device, get a refurbished device and assessment.
Missouri Assistive Technology
(816) 655-6700
See/try devices, loan program, and last resort funding for children.
Small Steps in Speech
1(888) 577-3256
Assists children with speech and language disorders by funding supplemental therapies, treatments, and AAC devices.
The Orange Effect
Grants to empower children and young adults with speech disorders to effectively communicate through technology and speech therapy.
Variety KC
(913) 558-2309
Communication (assistive technology) grant.
*Talk to your waiver or CDDO case manager for funding supports/insurance appeals.
All clinics listed serve clients with special needs and provide sedation.
A World of Smiles
(816) 380-2222
In Harrisonville, MO.
Crown Town Dental
(913) 341-6767
In Shawnee, KS.
Dentistry for Children
(816) 548-3400
In Gladstone, MO.
Enable Dental
314-353-9820
Pilot program providing mobile dental services for eligible MO Medicaid recipients with disabilities.
KC Children’s Surgery Center
816-235-3455
In Kansas City, KS.
LeBlanc & Associates
(913) 914-9013
Multiple KS locations.
Pediatric Dental Specialists
(913) 649-5437
Multiple locations throughout the KC metro.
Stanley Pediatric Dentistry
(913) 345-0331
In Overland Park, KS.
Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry
Multiple KS locations.
Truman Lakewood Dental
(816) 404-6885
Provide sedation once per month. In Lee’s Summit, MO.
Affordable Care Act
1 (800) 318-2596
Public marketplace.
Cover Missouri
(800) 466-3213
Helps consumers gain information and in-person assistance needed to understand their health insurance options and financial help available to them.
Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) Program for Military Families who have Tricare
1 (888) 958-7347
Provides financial assistance to beneficiaries with special needs.
Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program
(800) 967-4660
Program that pays private health insurance premiums for those who have Medicaid in Kansas.
Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program
(573) 751-2005
Program that pays private health insurance premiums for those who have Medicaid in Missouri.
KanCare
(800) 792-4884
Kansas Medicaid.
KS Dept of Insurance
(800) 432-2484
Helps consumers resolve insurance complaints, investigates violations, and provides insurance education and outreach.
MO Dept of Insurance
1 (800) 726-7390
Helps consumers resolve insurance complaints, investigates violations, and provides insurance education and outreach.
MO Healthnet
(855) 373-4636
Missouri Medicaid.
UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation
(855) 698-4223
Grants provide financial assistance for families with children that have medical needs not covered or not fully covered by their commercial health insurance plan.
*If you are uninsured or underinsured, some clinics offer sliding scale fees. Visit our Find an Adult Care Doctor page and select the primary care PDF for clinics.
Bureau of Special Healthcare Needs
(816) 350-5422
If you have MO HealthNet, must call this agency for an intake for in home supports. This program provides health care support services, service coordination, for children and adults with special health care needs who meet eligibility requirements. Programs include: Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs, Family Partnership, Healthy Children & Youth, Medically Fragile Adult Waiver and Adult Brain Injury.
Resources for Healthcare Providers
Contains a directory of home health agencies in Kansas and Missouri.
Accessibility Medical Equipment
1 (866) 201-3829
Refurbished, low cost equipment.
Assistive Technology for Kansans
(785) 267-1717
Refurbished equipment.
Building Blocks for Kids
(513) 770-2900
Funds for therapy, therapy equipment, hearing aids, communication devices, home modifications, vans with wheelchair lifts, special beds, displacement costs when needing to see a specialist in another city, adaptive bikes, adaptive strollers, seizure dogs and so much more.
Chuck's Mobility
(913) 859-0290 or (816) 525-2205
Rentals/pre-owned items.
Giving Angels Foundation
(267) 332-1320
Awards grants to children under 21 years of age with physical disabilities or illness for life-changing equipment, medical supplies, essential family bills, specialized camps and therapeutic toys.
Kansas Equipment Exchange Reuse
(800) 526-3648
Helps Kansans obtain affordable DME and assistive technology, which is refurbished.
Missouri Assistive Technology
(816) 655-6700
Equipment loan program, Show Me Loan, recycling program for DME.
My Gym Foundation
(818) 907-6966
Gives $500 or less towards rehabilitative therapy, My Gym classes, assistive devices, medical equipment and sensory items.
Oley Foundation
1 (800) 776-OLEY
Donated supplies including enteral formula, pumps and tubing.
Project MEND
(210) 223-6363 ext. 3
Refurbished equipment.
Resources for Healthcare Providers
Contains a directory of DME companies in Kansas and Missouri.
The Arya Foundation
(314) 445-ARYA
Provides funds for adaptive equipment. Must be in the greater St. Louis area and have social work referral.
The Morgan Project
(321) 506-2707
Donated items that are available for cost of shipping or pick up.
Palliative Care Team at Children’s Mercy
(816) 855-1716
The Palliative Care Team can help you better understand your child’s diagnosis, talk about your treatment options, and determine what the best possible quality of life looks like for you and your child.
Pediatric Palliative Care Coalition
(412) 963-8243
Toolkits on care planning and caring conversations.
Arch National Respite Network
9 step guide to respite care for family caregivers of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
BREATHE KS Archdiocese Special Needs Ministry
(913) 647-3054
Grace Church SOAR Special Needs Ministry
(913) 814-7223
Matthew's Ministry
(417) 825-8137
Rewarding Work
1 (866) 212-9675
Search engine for Kansans to locate personal care attendants and respite support.
Call your local nursing schools for out of pocket childcare options. Some local options include:
- St. Luke's (816) 936-8724
- UMKC (816) 235-1700
- Research (816) 995-2800
*Speak to your waiver support coordinator about annual respite care hours that may be available.
Consult your insurance companies for referrals or speak to your insurance case manager.
21st Century Therapy
(816) 353-8585
OT, PT, ST, in home, aquatic, hippo, life skills, language enrichment, will accept Medicaid.
Ability KC
(816) 751-7700
Children's Therapeutic Learning Center, OT, PT, speech, communication device assessments, home assessments, driver's education, will accept Medicaid.
Advantage Speech Services, Inc.
(816) 407-0700
In home general and vital stem.
Autism Speaks
(314) 989-1003
Directory for ABA therapies.
Beyond Function
(913) 515-6298
OT.
Billings Speech Pathology Services
(816) 228-8393
PT, OT, ST, apraxia, autism, oral motor, accepts Medicaid, clinic based.
Britain Development
(913) 676-2000
Children's Mercy Outpatient Therapy Services
(816) 234-3000
OT, PT, SLT, will accept Medicaid.
Children's Therapy Group
(913) 383-9014
Clinic and in home, OT, PT, ST, sensory integration, therapeutic listening, autism.
Children's Therapy Services Inc
(913) 912-2174
OT, PT, SLT, behavioral therapy, social skills, dyslexia intervention, play therapy.
Clay County Public Health Department
(816) 595-4307
OT, PT, ST, Clay County residents only, accepts Medicaid, clinic based.
Easterseals Midwest
(816) 476-4011
Autism supports/ABA, preschool, home visiting.
First Steps
1 (866) 583-2392
All Missouri residents, home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
Gretchen Fischer
(913) 486-2299
Clinic based self-pay,ST
Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County
(913) 432-2900
Home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
Joshua Child & Family Development Center
(816) 763-7605
Counseling, social skills, support groups, camp for children with neurological disorders.
Kansas City Developmental Therapies
(816) 769-3558
OT, ST, social groups, autism.
Lakemary Infant-Toddler Lakemary Center: Miami county
(913) 294-4343
Home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
Lawrence Therapy Services
(785) 505-5000
Clinic based, ST, OT, PT.
Leavenworth County Infant Toddler Services Southeast KS Education Service Center USD #609
(913) 250-1111
Home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
Lori Story
(816) 682-0150
OT
Marian Hope Center
(816) 695-1255
Accepts Medicaid, clinic based, OT, PT, ST, specialty groups, handwriting, feeding, language enrichment, play groups, music therapy, reading.
Nicole Lindemann
(816) 694-0589
OT.
Outreach Therapies
(816) 588-3782
Clinic based and in home, accepts Medicaid, OT, PT, ST.
Paragon Speech Services
(816) 228-4310
In home and preschool, accepts Medicaid, pediatric feeding, swallowing, apraxia, ST.
Patricia Reiss
(913) 832-7925
In home, in private school, Johnson County, Kan. and Clay/Platte, Mo., ST, feeding, autism, motor speech disorders.
Pediatric Partners
Resource to help locate PT, OT, speech, learning disability specialists or mental health providers.
Pediatric Therapy Services, Inc.
(816) 523-5334
OT, PT, SLT, will accept Medicaid.
Play Abilities for Sensational Kids
(913) 213-3531
OT, PT, SLT.
Positioned to Learn
(913) 339-6109
In home, self-pay, ST.
Preferred Physical Therapy
(866) 412-5554
Premier Consulting
(816) 363-2052
In home and preschool for MO, general, autism, special skills group.
Sara Reieford
(913) 915-3135
In hom, ages 0-5 years, ST, apraxia, articulation and language.
Stephanie Beckner
(913) 579-1809
In home, self-pay.
The Children's SPOT
(816) 932-3832
PT, OT, SLT, preschool, accepts Medicaid.
Therapeutic Living Solutions
(913) 829-7775
In home and preschool, accepts Medicaid, OT.
Therapy in Motion
(816) 547-9654
PT.
Tiny-k Early Intervention-Douglas County
(785) 843-3059
Home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
University Health-Lakewood
(816) 404-9362
Accepts Medicaid, clinic based, OT, PT, ST.
University of Kansas Medical Center
(913) 588-5937
Clinic based, accepts Medicaid, OT, PT, ST.
Wyandotte County Infant-Toddler Services
(913) 627-5500
Home based, PT, OT, ST, accepts Medicaid.
Bazin Optometry, P.C.
(816) 333-1500
Eye care for individuals with special needs.
Sunflower Vision Development Center
(913) 631-0262
Vision rehabilitation for patients with special needs.
Waivers are Medicaid programs that promote care in a person’s home or community. Waivers can provide additional coverage for benefits including nursing and attendant care, specialized medical supplies, and home modification.
CDDO Johnson County
(913) 826-2600
CDDO Wyandotte County
(913) 573-5502
Center For Human Services
(660) 826-4400
Service coordination for Clay, Jackson and Platte counties.
Children's Resource Connection
(316) 721-1945
Entry point for TA Waiver in Kansas.
Cottonwood, Inc
(785) 842-0550
CDDO in Douglas County, Kan.
EITAS
(816) 363-2000
Jackson County, Mo.
Kansas City Regional Office (KCRO)
(816) 889-3400
Patients who live in Missouri should contact this agency to become connected to a support coordinator and further assessment for Department of Mental Health Waivers.
Kansas Waivers
Home and community based services (HCBS).
Platte County Board of Services
(816) 891-0990
Riverside Resources, Inc
(913) 651-6810
CDDO in Leavenworth County, Kan.
Tri-Ko, Inc
(913) 755-3025
CDDO in Miami County, Kan.
Financial assistance
Association of Blind Citizens
Provides funds to cover 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software for legally blind applicants.
Be Perfect Foundation
(909) 621-9309
Offers financial assistance for individuals living with paralysis.
Byron Riesch Paralysis Foundation
(262) 547-2083
Charitable grants and scholarships available for individuals with neurological disorders.
Grottoes of North America Humanitarian Foundation
(614) 933-0711
Helps cover costs of dental treatment for children with specific medical conditions.
Jett Foundation
(781) 585-5566
Funding for families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Molly Bear Foundation
(609) 228-8575
Financial assistance to families raising children with Trisomy 18 for medical expenses and beyond.
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
(888) 673-6287 or (954) 776-6805
Several grants for families affected by multiple sclerosis, including emergency assistance, assistive technology, and transportation.
Spina Bifida Association of Greater Kansas City
(816) 277-9087
Financial assistance fund for medical equipment for children with spina bifida.
Team Joseph
(833) 428-3301
Financial assistance for families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
The Hike Fund
Grants towards hearing aids and assistive listening devices.
The LENN Foundation
Provides grants for children with cerebral palsy to pursue intensive therapy.
The Parker Lee Project
(469) 441-1485
Provides needed medical equipment and supplies to families of children with special needs.
United Cerebral Palsy
(800) 872-5827
Assistive technology fund for children with cerebral palsy.
Economic Relief Pilot Program through Salvation Army
(816) 756-5392
Missouri residents only. Must be eligible based on family income.
Health Well Foundation
(800) 675-8416
Provides financial assistance to cover cost of prescription drug coinsurance, copayments, deductibles, health insurance premiums and selected out of pocket health care costs.
Kansas City's Medicine Cabinet
(816) 276-7517
Short term assistance with emergency dental care, diabetic supplies, durable medical equipment, prescriptions and eyeglasses.
Kansas Department of Children and Families
(833) 765-2003
Information, locations of local WIC offices and nutrition education.
Kansas WIC Program
(785) 296-1320
List of local health departments where you can go to apply for WIC.
Keep Swimming Foundation
(262) 264-8881
Financial assistance for those whose family member has had extended hospitalization.
KS Low Income Energy Assistance Program
(800) 432-0043
One time per year paying portion of home energy costs/application period January through March.
Link for Care
Database for resources.
Missouri Department of Social Services
(855) 373-4636
Find local family support division centers and info on how to apply for TANF, food stamps, childcare assistance and child support.
Missouri WIC Program
(800) 392-8209
Locations, income guidelines, FAQs.
MO Housing Development Commission
(816) 759-6600 or (314) 877-1350
Coordinates grants and low cost loans for affordable housing and home repairs.
MO Inclusive Housing Development Corporation
(855) 444-5100
Provides info on accessible and affordable housing.
MO Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(855) 373-4636
One time payment for primary heating bill November through March or energy crisis intervention program year round with limited amounts.
NetWish
Grants $200 to individuals that find themselves in serious financial trouble.
RareCare Program through National Organization for Rare Disorders
1 (800) 999-6673
Medication, financial assistance with insurance premiums and copays, diagnostic testing assistance, and travel assistance for clinical trials or consultation with disease specialists.
Rx Assist
Directory of patient assistance programs run by pharmaceutical companies.
United Way 211
Call 211 or (816) 474-5112, option 5 for resources in your zip code.
*If your child relies on life-saving durable medical equipment that requires electricity, you are also eligible for medical customer/life support/medically fragile programs through your energy company. Please note these programs will not prevent disconnection if you have an overdue bill. However, being a part of these programs may grant you a temporary extension before disconnection and will put you on a priority list to be reconnected in the event of a power outage. Call your energy company to learn how to become a part of that program.
Academy of Special Needs Planners
(866) 296-5509
Articles on special needs topic, directory of special needs planners.
Jerry Bell
(913) 345-2323
Estate planning attorney fluent in special needs trusts and guardianship.
Kansas ABLE Savings Plan
(888) 609-8919
Leslie Byran
(913) 486-0268
Estate planning attorney fluent in special needs trusts and guardianship.
Midwest Estate Plan
(913) 262-2000
Offer free educational workshops on special needs planning.
Midwest Special Needs Trust
(573) 256-5055
Administers special needs trusts.
MoneySmartKC
(888) 815-8016
Financial counseling and connection to local financial resources.
National Care Advisors
(800) 652-7404
Assists with benefits access/issues, quality of life planning (cost of future care) and resolving case management issues.
Northwestern Mutual
(913) 748-0660
Financial planner/free consults.
*Talk to your bank to see if they have a special needs planning center.
Mission: Christmas - City Union Mission
Christmas store and food for a holiday meal for income-qualified families.
Sack it for Santa - Love Fund for Children
Holiday gift sacks for teens ages 12-18 years for income-qualified families. Requires a social work referral.
Santa's Little Hackers
Adapted toy.
*Call United Way 211 (816) 474-5112, Option 5 to learn about other holiday assistance programs in your area.
Check with your Medicaid waiver support coordinator before utilizing the resources below. Funding is typically available through many of the waiver programs for home and vehicle modifications. If you’re unable to obtain enough funding through a waiver, consider community supports or ideas below for additional fundraising.
AMBUCS
Saliana area only unless there is extra funding. Provide assistance with adaptive tricycles, ramps, and other mobility projects.
Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs Program MO
(816) 513-6143
Limited funding for medically necessary diagnostic and tx services/durable medical equipment (DME).
Chive Charities
Funding for DME, home and vehicle modifications for people with rare medical conditions.
Christmas in October
(816) 531-6443
Home rehab services limited times throughout the year.
Eudora United Methodist Church
(785) 542-3200
Minor ramp building in Lawrence, Kansas.
HeRO Program – Home Repair Opportunity Program
Funding for home repair and modifications for rural Missouri.
Hope Builders
(888) 467-3001
Free/discounted home repair and accessibility modifications in KC metro.
Kansas Assistive Technology-Northeast Site
(785) 267-1717
Assessments, environmental and vehicle modifications.
K-Loan
(866) 465-2826
Low interest loans for assistive technology in Kansas.
Metropolitan Lutheran Ministries
(816) 931-0027
Assists with access issues and minor home repairs for low income homeowners in KC metro.
Midwest Special Needs Trust
(573) 256-5055
Grant funding for services or equipment not covered by insurance.
Northland Neighborhoods
(816) 454-2000
Home repair in Clay and Platte counties in Missouri.
Ramps.org
(847) 680-7700
Database to locate organizations that provide funding and building services
Rebuilding Together
(816) 781-8985 or (913) 248-2802
Home rehab and modification for low income home owners.
Redemptorist Social Services Center
(816) 931-9942
Minor home modifications, assists different zip codes each week.
Show Me Loans
(800) 647-8557
Low interest loans for assistive technology in Missouri.
Special Healthcare Needs-KS
(913) 573-8863 or (913) 249-2431
Allows for specific requests for financial support of medical equipment, specialized care, education, or other needed items that can improve health status, function, or quality of life.
Team Joseph
(833) 428-3301
Program that financially assists families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
The Kansas Society for Children with Challenges
(316) 262-4676
Funding for DME, home and vehicle modifications.
The Whole Person
(816) 561-0304
Home assessments, ramp construction, minor home modifications.
Union Local 249
(816) 454-6333
Free labor to install ramps and writes grants to help fund supplies. Contact Kim Rowland for more info at 816-805-4807.
United Healthcare Children’s Foundation
(855) 698-4223
Financial assistance for medical services, treatments, therapies and/or medical equipment for children who have commercial insurance as primary.
Variety KC
(913) 558-2309
Mobility grant for van lift, home modifications, stair ramp, wheelchair, etc.
West Central Independent Living Solutions
(660) 829-1980
Minor home modifications in Lafayette County, Missouri.
Wheelchairs 4 Kids
(727) 946-0963
Provides custom wheelchairs, widens doors, builds ramps and provides wheelchair lifts and carriers for vehicles. Other services include standers and gait trainers.
Wyandotte Unified Government
(913) 573-5100
Home repair program and roof repair program.
*See Accessibility and Transportation sections for additional resources regarding modifications.
Aubrey Rose Foundation
Financial assistance for children with a life-threatening medical condition.
Giving Angels Foundation
(267) 332-1320
$500 grants available for children with any type of physical disability or illness in low-income families.
Kansas Society for Children with Challenges
(316) 262-4676
Provides financial assistance for specialized medical services and medical equipment. Must call for information about application.
Mike’s Kids
Provides assistance via services, equipment, education, special care, and respite support to children with special needs and their families.
Pediatric Angel Network
Providing relief and hope to families with an ill or disabled child during a difficult time. Requires a referral from child’s pediatrician or social worker.
The Morgan Project
Provides resources, gently used disability equipment, and small grants.
Check with your Medicaid waiver support coordinator before utilizing the resources below. Funding is typically available through many of the waiver programs for home and vehicle modifications. If you’re unable to obtain enough funding through a waiver, consider community supports or ideas below for additional fundraising.
1-800-Charity Cars
(800) 242-7489
Braun Ability
(800) 488-0359
Financial information about modified vehicles. Grants and other funding assistance available.
Cerner Charitable Foundation
(816) 201-1569
Funding for DME, travel, vehicle lifts and other health care costs.
Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs Program MO
(816) 513-6143
Limited funding for medically necessary diagnostic and tx services/durable medical equipment (DME).
Chive Charities
Funding for DME, home and vehicle modifications for people with rare medical conditions.
Friends of Man
(303) 798-2342
Financial assistance for prostheses, wheelchairs, medical equipment, mobility equipment and/or hearing aids. Requires a social work referral.
Jett Foundation
(781) 585-5566
Fund program to help families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Kansas Assistive Technology-Northeast Site
(785) 267-1717
Assessments, environmental and vehicle modifications.
K-Loan
(866) 465-2826
Low interest loans for assistive technology in Kansas.
Magic Mobility
(732) 397-5056
Connection to local resources for van.
Midwest Special Needs Trust
(573) 256-5055
Grant funding for services or equipment not covered by insurance.
National Organization for Vehicle Accessibility
(304) 606-2984
Grant program to assist with cost of mobility transportation equipment.
Show Me Loans
(800) 647-8557
Low interest loans for assistive technology in Missouri.
Special Healthcare Needs-KS
(913) 573-8863 or (913) 249-2431
Allows for specific requests for financial support of medical equipment, specialized care, education, or other needed items that can improve health status, function, or quality of life.
Team Joseph
(833) 428-3301
Program that financially assists families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
The Kansas Society for Children with Challenges
(316) 262-4676
Funding for DME, home and vehicle modifications.
United Healthcare Children’s Foundation
(855) 698-4223
Financial assistance for medical services, treatments, therapies and/or medical equipment for children who have commercial insurance as primary.
Variety KC
(913) 558-2309
Mobility grant for van lift, home modifications, stair ramp, wheelchair, etc.
Wheelchairs 4 Kids
(727) 946-0963
Provides custom wheelchairs, widens doors, builds ramps and provides wheelchair lifts and carriers for vehicles. Other services include standers and gait trainers.
*See Accessibility and Transportation sections for additional resources regarding modifications.
County resource guides
*Children’s Mercy provides this list of resources as a courtesy only and the list is not exhaustive. It is compiled from resources that Beacon Program families and team members have shared as helpful. These provided resources do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Children’s Mercy of the web sites, the information contained therein, the organizations, or the services provided.