We know how challenging it is having a child with disabilities.  We hope that the information listed below can make it a little easier. 

Financial Assistance

1. Social Security Income (SSI)

This program provides benefits to needy individuals who are disabled.  SSI has many of the same qualifications of Social Security Disability (SSDI), but a person does not have to have a work history.  SSI is also determined by a person's income and financial resources.  To apply for SSI, call 1-800-772-1213 or your local Social Security Office.

2. Aid to Families With Dependent Children (AFDC)

This program provides financial aid to needy, dependent children and their caregiver relatives.  Unfortunatly this program has limited eligibility.  Benefits are only paid to children who have lost their support by death, incapacity, or continued absence of a parent.  AFDC benefits are restricted to children under the age of 18, or children who are full time students in a secondary school and is expected to graduate by age 19.  Households that qualify for AFDC is automatically qualified for Medicaid coverage.  For more information and to apply, please call your local Division of Family Services Office (DFS).

Health Care for Disabled Children

1. Medicaid

This program assists the disabled in covering their medical expenses.  Benefits are distributed according to income and need.  To apply for Medicaid Benefits please call your local DFS Office.  You can also download and print the application from the DFS website:

2. The Bureau for Special Health Needs

This program provides diagnostic, preventative, and specialized medical care for eligible Missouri children.  There are four guidlines to qualify for this program.  (1) Be under the age of 21.  (2) Be a Missouri resident. (3) Have an organic disease, defect, or condition that hinders normal growth development. (4) Meet financial guidlines of the program.  If your child qualifies for this program, there are no charges to you for any services obtained.  To apply for this program, visit your local Public Health Department or call 1-800-451-0669.

Charity Hospitals for Disabled Children

There are several hospitals that will see disabled children at little to no charge to you, the parent. 

Shriner's Hospital for Children

 In the U.S.: 1-800-237-5055

2001 S. Lindbergh Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63131-3597
This hospital is limited to patients that physicians believe that can be helped by the specialized treatment available.  To obtain an application, please call 1-800-237-5055 or visit their website:

Kenny Roger's Center

300 Floyd Drive
PO Box 608
Sikeston, Missouri 63801
Phone - (573) 472-0397

This medical center is located in Sikeston and serves approximately 300 patients.  They serve patients from birth to age 21.  There is no cost to the parents of the patients.

Helpful Numbers for Parents of Disabled Children

Parenting Support Groups

Advocacy for Citizens with Retardation - 1-913-648-2317

Association of Retarded Citizens - 1-314-569-2211

Pilot Parent - 1-417-883-4065

Northwest Parent Network - 1-816-424-3501

Parental Stress Helpline - 1-800-367-2543

United Cerebral Palsy - 1-816-364-3836

The information on this page was obtained from a phamplet published by the Missouri Bar.