Don’t see your question answered below?

Please email us at grants@aotsf.org and we’ll be happy to help.

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Who can apply for a Dreams Come True Respite Grant?

Families that include one or more neurodivergent individuals or individuals with other disabilities, of any age, may apply. Grants are only available to families residing in the United States and Canada.

 

How do I apply?

Families must first register to receive grant alerts. When funding allows the Foundation to open a grant cycle, families registered for grant alerts will receive an email inviting them to submit an application, with full instructions.

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How do I register for grant alerts?

Click THIS LINK to register for notifications. Complete the form with your information. You’ll receive a confirmation email and may be asked to verify your email address to ensure you receive grant alerts.

 

I received an email invitation to apply. What should I do next?

• If you previously applied for a grant but were not awarded, you will need to submit a new application

• Re-read the Grant Terms & Conditions as these may have changed and be sure you still qualify for a grant.

• When you're ready, click the link in your email and complete the application form. The email address in the application MUST match your invitation email or it will be rejected automatically.

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What does the respite grant cover?

Typically, the respite grant will cover: 

• Staff-assisted vacation services 

• Cruise fare 

• Transportation to and from the port 

• Pre-cruise hotel when required 

• Travel insurance 

• Standard gratuities 

• Wi-Fi for one device 

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See the Terms & Conditions for complete details and exclusions.

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What documentation is accepted as proof of diagnosis?

We accept:

• A physician’s diagnosis, or

• Educational documentation such as a 504 Plan or IEP​.

Documentation will be requested if your application is selected for further review by our Grant Committee.

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Which family members will be covered by a grant?

The grant covers immediate family members only, including parents or caregivers and siblings of the individual(s) with a disability. Extended family members or friends may travel at the same time, but they must cover their own expenses.

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Are there financial or other eligibility requirements?

The Foundation does not award grants based on race, religion, gender, or economic status. Grants are awarded based on overall need, circumstances, and the potential impact of the grant.

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The application asks me to write why the grant is necessary. What should I include?

Our Review Committee carefully reads every application and must make difficult decisions due to limited funding. This is your opportunity to share your family’s circumstances, challenges, and why this is essential for you. Examples may include families who have never been able to take a break - ever, or who have faced significant hardship or loss—but every story is unique. Information shared in applications is kept confidential and used only within the Foundation.

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Why do you ask for information about our family's circumstances?

Demand for grants is significantly greater than available funding. The Review Committee uses the information provided to understand each family's circumstances and determine where a grant could have the greatest impact.

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Can a family receive more than one respite grant?

No. Due to overwhelming demand and limited funding, the Foundation can award only one respite grant per family.

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My application was not selected in this round. What are my options?

We understand how disappointing this can be. Every year demand for grants far exceeds our available funding. If unsuccessful you can apply in future years. There are other organizations that also support families in need. We have compiled a list of such organizations on this page for reference; inclusion does not imply endorsement.

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My application was selected for a grant. What happens next?

Our team will contact you to begin planning your travel. We handle the booking of the cruise and, where applicable, flights, ground transportation and hotel accommodations. You will receive information about the staff-assisted program and the requirements you must complete before travel.