If you or someone you love lives with a developmental disability in Ohio — or if you lead a nonprofit that serves this community — there’s a funding opportunity you need to know about. Community Fund Ohio offers grants to both individuals and nonprofit organizations, helping to remove barriers, expand access, and create a more inclusive Ohio for everyone.
Who Is Community Fund Ohio?
Founded in 1993, Community Fund Ohio (also known as Community Foundation Management Services of Ohio) has spent more than 30 years supporting Ohioans with disabilities. Based in Middleburg Heights, the organization manages pooled special needs trusts for thousands of individuals. According to their website, the grants are funded by the generosity of beneficiaries who have passed away.
Their mission is simple but powerful: create opportunities that empower Ohioans with disabilities to live fuller, more independent lives.
How Much Can You Receive?
Eligible individuals can receive up to $7,500. This is a lifetime limit per person.
The money is given directly to providers for qualifying expenses. The money does not go directly to you.
What Can the Grant Cover?
The grant funds can be used for a wide range of disability-related needs, including:
- Home modifications such as ramps, bathroom modifications, sensory rooms, or yard fences
- Adaptive equipment like wheelchairs, adaptive strollers, or mobility aids
- Vehicle modifications
- Specialized therapies such as aquatic, equine or art therapy
- Summer camps (applications for summer camps are only accepted during Winter Quarter )
- Swimming lessons and other community participation activities
The goal is to fund items and services that help individuals live and participate in the world more fully — things that insurance or government programs often don’t cover.
For example, one family applied for an adaptive stroller for their son Gregory, whose needs had outgrown standard equipment. The grant covered the cost of a specialized stroller designed to support him as he grows into adulthood. For his mom Lisa, it meant peace of mind — and the ability for their whole family to get out and enjoy life together.
Do You Qualify for the Grant?
You may be eligible if you are an Ohio resident and meet one of the following criteria:
- You have a developmental disability documented by a medical provider or your local Board of Developmental Disabilities; OR
- They receive SSI and have a working relationship with their local Board of Developmental Disabilities; OR
- You are currently receiving services through Ohio’s Early Intervention (EI) program
Anyone can apply on behalf of a loved one — you don’t have to be the person with the disability to submit an application.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted year-round but they are reviewed on four quarterly windows.
| Applications Due | Applications Reviewed | Funds Mailed |
|---|---|---|
| May 31 | July | August |
| August 15 | October | November |
| November 15 | January | February |
In order to apply:
- Gather any documentation you may need, including your your eligibility verification (such as a doctor’s note or SSI award letter). You will also need either a quote or unpaid invoice for the item/service you are requesting.
- Visit the Community Fund Ohio Individual Grant Page and click on the big blue button that says Click Here to Apply.
- Create an account. You will need to have an email address.
- Fill out the application. You can save your progress any time. You will need to upload images or pdf files with the rqeuiremed attachments. IF you need help, you can call or email them for assistance.
This grant is highly competitive so please make sure your application is complete at the time that you apply.
Relief Recap
Don’t let the cost of disability-related needs stand in the way. Community Fund Ohio’s individual grants exist specifically to help Ohioans with disabilities access the resources they need to thrive.
