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Empowering Texas children with spina bifida: Durable Medical Equipment Grant

In response to the unique challenges faced by children and adults with spina bifida, we are delighted to announce the launch of our Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Grant program. Spina bifida, a congenital condition affecting the spinal cord, can significantly impact the mobility and daily lives of children and adults.  We recognize the importance of access to specialized equipment in facilitating their development and independence and our grant aims to bridge gaps in DME availability across the state. From customized wheelchairs and orthotic devices to adaptive technologies for education and recreation, we are committed to empowering Texas children with spina bifida to thrive and flourish.

Our grant program is tailored to address the specific needs of children with spina bifida and their families with a focus on promoting accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity. We invite proposals from healthcare providers, pediatric rehabilitation centers, schools, and community organizations dedicated to serving children with spina bifida. Whether through direct provision of equipment, financial assistance programs, or collaborative initiatives with local stakeholders, we seek innovative approaches that prioritize the well-being and holistic development of children affected by spina bifida in the diverse communities across Texas.

In addition to meeting immediate equipment needs, our grant program emphasizes the importance of education and support for children and families navigating life with spina bifida. We encourage applicants to integrate educational components into their proposals, such as training sessions on equipment usage and maintenance, workshops on adaptive techniques for daily living, and resources for accessing healthcare services and community support networks. By empowering children and families with knowledge, skills, and resources, we aim to foster resilience and self-advocacy within the spina bifida community in Texas. Together, let us pave the way for brighter futures for Texas children with spina bifida, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to thrive and succeed.

  • Application for Assistance

    Applicant would need to reside in Texas and have a spina bifida diagnosis

  • Please read this first before completing the form:

    If accepted, we require a photo of your child with their awarded equipment or receiving therapy services. Photos should be emailed to: admin@suzannahsmiles.org Note: We will only publish photos of children authorized by families with a release form or email confirmation, other photos will be kept confidential.

    Application process:

    • Please complete all the required fields and upload all the needed documents.
    • Once submitted, please give us 3-4 weeks to review your application.
    • Applicant may be subject to an interview.
    • Should this application be accepted, funds will be distributed to the company where equipment or service is, no funds will be directly released to applicant and will expire 1 year from date of acceptance letter.

    Please prepare for the following documents, either in word, JPEG, or PDF format. (Preferably in JPEG)

    • A letter from your child’s physician/specialist/therapist on their respective letterhead that states your child’s disability and why they would benefit from the requested equipment or service
    • Insurance denial letter you have received on requested equipment or service (n/a for Pumper Cars)
    • Details of the product or service you are requesting, along with prices and photo of the product.
    • A picture of your child (this is only for our reference).

    Disclosure: Suzannah Smiles reserves the right to accept or decline any applicant. Suzannah Smiles will not discriminate based race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Suzannah Smiles will decide on which applicant will receive funding. If accepted, no applicant will receive funds directly from Suzannah Smiles, all funds will be distributed to location of equipment or service.

  • About the Applicant

  • Equipment or Service Information

  • About the Applicant's Family

  • Documents Upload

    We prefer you upload your documents as images (.JPEG) for faster viewing but you can still upload word and PDF files.

  • Submission

  • Release of Liability

    In consideration of the receipt of certain equipment or services awarded by the Suzannah Smiles, (the recipient thereof), him/herself or through his/her parent or legal guardian, hereby releases and forever discharges Suzannah Smiles, their members, employees, and officers from and against any and all claims, of any type, which arise from or relate to:

    • Any alleged malfunction of or defect in the enabling equipment;
    • Any allegation that the enabling equipment was not appropriate or suitable for the recipient;
    • Any other matter related to the recipient’s receipt or use of the enabling equipment or service.

    Disclaimer

    The equipment we provide carries no warranty from Suzannah Smiles, even in the event of malfunction resulting in injury, gives rise to no liabilities on the part of the Suzannah Smiles. Suzannah Smiles is merely a funding source and is in no way responsible for reclaiming, disposing of, maintaining or repairing equipment. It is the sole responsibility of the Recipient’s legal guardian(s) to assemble, maintain and repair the equipment.

    By signing this application, you affirm the information submitted to us is true and correct, and that you agree to the release of liability and disclaimer.

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