How Do I Receive Charitable Donations for Medical Expenses?
You may receive charitable donations for medical expenses through a variety of local, regional and national resources. Often, local charities and other private organizations work in conjunction with state and federal governments. Charities may provide small donations or offer complete funding for medical services, equipment and supplies.
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Instructions
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Contact your local Department of Human Services (DHS). DHS collaborates with local charities and private organizations that can help you with medical expenses. Have all of your financial and family information available, such as proof of income, family size, Social Security numbers and dates of birth for all family members residing with you.
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Contact a guidance counselor at school. Whether you have a child in school or you are an adult attending a secondary education institution, a guidance counselor can offer in-school support and outside referrals to charities and organizations that can cover some types of medical expenses for students. Available funds and donations from charities vary, so check with the school's guidance counselor regularly for updated information.
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Contact your parish office and ask for assistance. Religious organizations and community churches may have funds available to defray the cost of medical equipment and supplies. Church members may also be able to donate the items you need. A parish nurse can assist you further in obtaining medical equipment and supplies. Look in the church bulletin for information on how to contact the parish nurse.
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Apply for funding through charitable websites, such as Modest Needs. These websites help you get cash to pay for medical necessities. Donors provide modest funds to you, based on the information you provide in your profile. Fill out an application online.
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Find a community health center. The centers provide free or low-cost medical services and supplies, based on your ability to pay. Donated funds help defray the costs that you cannot pay. Community health centers receive grants from the federal government, but most clinics depend on state and private funding sources to remain open and serve the community. To find a community health center near you, see Resources.
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Apply for help through a hospital. Hospitals often operate charity care programs for patients who do not qualify for Medicaid or other types of government funding. Sometimes the hospital offers help with medical expenses or donates medical supplies. Other times, the hospital may refer you to an outside charity or organization where you can receive help with medical expenses. Inquire about the resources available at the hospital's patient financial services office.
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Contact the Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF). The LCIF donates donate medical equipment and supplies. The Financial Times ranked LCIF the number one nongovernmental organization in a 2007 study. To locate the LCIF office near you, see Resources.
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Tips & Warnings
Although you may qualify for charitable donations, you may not receive help. Charities may not have funds readily available, so you may have to go on a waiting list.
Organizations may share your financial information with other organizations or charities.
References
Resources
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