Family Grant Application
Real help for real needs.
DSL Michigan awards grants of $1,000, $3,500, and $5,000 to families raising a child with Down syndrome. Grants can be used for medical bills, therapies, adaptive equipment, respite, or day-to-day needs. Applications are reviewed monthly.
Before you apply
Please read the eligibility requirements and what to have ready.
Eligibility
- Applicant is a parent or legal guardian of a child with Down syndrome (prenatal diagnosis, newborn, or currently in the home).
- Family resides in Michigan.
- Demonstrated financial need — the grant is not intended to replace insurance or other aid you are already receiving in full.
- Funds will be used for a specific, tangible need (medical, therapy, adaptive equipment, respite, education, travel for care, or essential daily living).
- One grant per family per calendar year.
- Applicant is 18 years or older.
What you'll need
- Contact info for you (and spouse, if applicable) and your mailing address.
- Your child's name, age, and where you are in the Down syndrome journey.
- Household size, approximate annual income, and employment status.
- A short description of the need and exactly how the grant funds will be used.
- One reference (pastor, doctor, therapist, social worker, or case manager) we may contact to verify need.
- Certification that the information you provide is true and complete.
Grant tiers: $1,000 (smaller one-time needs), $3,500 (larger equipment, therapy blocks, medical bills), $5,000 (significant medical or long-term care needs).
Review timeline: Applications are reviewed monthly. You'll receive an email decision within 30 days. Funds are paid directly to the provider/vendor whenever possible, or reimbursed with a receipt.
Privacy: Your information is kept confidential and used only for grant review.