Resources for Families
The Autism on the Seas Foundation recognizes that it cannot meet the overwhelming need for support that exists in the population we serve. This page contains additional resources for families we have encountered on our own search for funding.
Please note, we cannot guarantee nor do we endorse external resources presented here. Not all of them align with our mission of providing respite grants. Eligibility and program availability can change. Please confirm current requirements directly with each organization.
Click the organization's name to be taken to their website.
Last Updated August 2026.
Grants for Therapy and Equipment
Covering nearly 150 serious and chronic conditions, TotalAssist claims to be the nation’s most comprehensive charitable patient assistance program. Through TotalAssist, the Patient Advocate Foundation helps patients afford the cost of healthcare with grants to eligible individuals. TotalAssist grants provide patients with flexible use funding.
Their goal is to provide services, opportunities and education concerning autism for families without the financial means to access such necessities.
Any family with a child on the autism spectrum is welcome to apply. There are other qualifying factors such as financial limits and ability to adhere to the child’s prescribed treatment plan.
Individuals and families in economic distress may apply through local social service agencies. A list of agencies is provided on the website.
Autism Care Today continues to fund treatment products and services, including the nation’s first campaign dedicated to military children with autism—families who face unique challenges both overseas and at home.
ASDF supplies iPads to families of children with autism across the United States. Recipients are randomly selected from completed applications. Starting January 1, 2026, ASDF will be accepting iPad applications every month. Families may apply each month to receive an iPad for their autistic child.
The My Gym Foundation accepts applications from or on behalf of children with physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities and those coping with chronic illness or financial struggles. Requests, limited to gifts of $500 or less, may include but are not limited to rehabilitative therapy, assistive devices, medical equipment, and sensory items.
Travel Related
Their mission is to provide vehicles to families of children with disabilities across the nation to give them a chance to have the normal experiences that every child has, growing up as a kid.
Navigating an airport can be challenging for a healthy adult — but for individuals on the autism spectrum, it can be downright overwhelming. Airports are often crowded and full of new and unusual sensory experiences. Autism Flies gives families the chance to practice every step of the boarding process at a local airport.
The Arc’s Wings for Autism®/Wings for All® (Wings) program gives families and aviation professionals the confidence to take to the skies with ease by providing an airport “rehearsal,” as well as a presentation on the aircraft features and in-flight safety protocols.
Our mock flight program, in partnership with American Airlines, allows families to practice the entire airport and flight experience in a supportive, judgment-free setting. Includes Mock Flight Experience, Sensory Preparation and Airport Familiarization.
Fundraising
According to their website, Go Fund Me is the global leader in crowdfunding, trusted by 100+ million people. They note you can start your fundraiser in minutes with tools to help you succeed.
Other
PLAN of CT is a 501c3 nonprofit solely focused on the administration of special needs trusts. They assist individuals living with disabilities and their families, partnering understanding with compassion to undergo a personalized assessment and planning process.
The mission of Make-A-Wish is that "Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses." Since 1981 they have helped hundreds of thousands of children realize their Wish. You can read their eligibility criteria and refer a child on their website.