The chapter provides a wide array of programs and services to individuals with MS and their families to enhance their lives and create avenues toward greater independence. Our chapter can help individuals with obtaining services in the following areas:
Grant Me Independence (GMI): Provides monetary grants to assist individuals who are having difficulty accessing durable medical equipment or other necessary augmentations, such as the purchase or modification of items to allow recipients to remain independent. To qualify for this program an individual must meet eligibility requirements. For more information on the program and application process please call 1-800-344-4867 press 1.
The chapter thanks Grossmont HealthCare District for awarding $10,000 from its East County Community Grant Program to support the Grant Me Independence program.
Financial Planning: Provides expertise to individuals with MS who are facing financial difficulty. This MS National Program, the nation’s first multi-organization pro bono financial planning program, collaborates with financial services organizations to provide personal financial advising to those who are facing an immediate financial crisis, or those who could benefit from financial counseling and are unable to afford this service. Professional financial advisors offer money management and related financial education including: simple budgeting skills, managing cash flow, debt repayments, as well as general financial planning services. These vital services empower clients with the skill and knowledge to better manage their finances. For more information call 1-800-344-4867.
Educational Scholarships: MS shouldn’t stand in the way of an education. This is why the National MS Society's scholarship program exists — to help highly qualified students who have been diagnosed with MS or who have a parent with MS achieve their dreams of going to college. Learn more.
Support for the scholarship program comes from foundations, chapter donors, our own employee giving program and other sources. Click here to learn how you can help us support future scholars.
Emergency Financial Assistance: For individuals facing an immediate financial crisis or inability to obtain the basic needs of food, utilities or shelter. For more information call 1-800-344-4867.
Summer Emergency Assistance: For individuals facing worsening MS symptoms to due to hot weather June through September. For more information call 1-800-344-4867.
Transportation Vouchers: Monthly vouchers are available to individuals as-needed, on a first-come, first serve basis. These vouchers can be used to on OCTA, MTS/CTS Access minivan, dial-a-ride vehicles, and public buses. This program allows individuals to make their appointment at the MS Clinic or have a fun day at the mall or the movies. Please note that service areas are limited.
Accessible Shuttle Vouchers: Accessible shuttle vouchers are available to individuals with MS who cannot utilize public transportation. These vouchers are limited and only available for trips to doctor’s appointment or chapter program events. The chapter has limited funding resources for Accessible Shuttle Vouchers and is seeking donations to continue this program in future years; if you can assist please contact Karen.Barton@MSpacific.org or call 760-448-8412.
For information regarding transportation, please call 1-800-344-4867 press 1.
Equipment Loan Closet: Proper equipment can significantly increase the independence of a person with MS. To help individuals achieve their independence, the chapter maintains an Equipment Loan Closet. The Closet is stocked with durable medical equipment including wheelchairs, walkers and other devices that will allow individuals greater accessibility in their daily lives.
Individuals who are unable to get necessary equipment on their own can request items from the Loan Closet. Equipment loans are made on a short- or long-term basis. To qualify for this program, an individual must be a registered member of the chapter and have a prescription from a doctor for the item that is being requested. Submit your request by completing the request form. For questions regarding the program, call 1-800-344-4867 press 1.
The chapter thanks Abundant Home Care and the Ability Center for their generous donations that support the Loan Closet program.
If you would to donate durable medical equipment to the Loan Closet, please complete the donation form or call 1-800-344-4867 press 1.