Caring for someone with multiple sclerosis can be deeply satisfying, but also can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Taking time for rest and relaxation or attending to personal or business matters is essential to self-care. Respite — temporary relief for family care partners — is an important family preservation and support service.
The National MS Society, Upper Midwest Chapter can provide limited financial assistance to help purchase respite care services to any person with multiple sclerosis who’s registered with the Upper Midwest Chapter.
Funding guidelines
- The Care Partner Relief Grant provides temporary relief for care partners and family caregivers of people with MS, allowing the care partner to rest/relax or attend to short-term personal or business matters.
- The reimbursed care may be provided in either an out-of-home setting (such as a state licensed residential care home or skilled nursing facility) or in the home by a licensed home care agency.
- In-home respite care providers must be individuals who meet state qualifications as a licensed registered nurse, home health aide or personal care attendant. Respite care providers must be first-aid and CPR certified.
- Alternative resources for reimbursement (i.e. Medicare; Medical Assistance/Medicaid; private insurance; and/or state, county or private funding) must be explored before applying for the chapter’s grant.
- The grant can assist with a maximum of $1,500 per person, per fiscal year. Fiscal years run Oct. 1 through Sept. 30.
Application process
- Contact the Upper Midwest Chapter at 800-582-5296 (option 1) to request an application and/or referrals for respite care providers in your area.
- Complete the application and send it to the National MS Society, 200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, along with written confirmation of MS diagnosis and a prescription stating medical need for respite care by a physician.
For more information, call 800-582-5296 (option 1).