Grants for Disabled People in Washington, DC
The nation’s capital, Washington, DC, is a vibrant hub of culture, diversity and opportunity. Within this dynamic cityscape, Washington, DC, offers a wealth of support programs designed to uplift and empower individuals facing various challenges, including disabilities. Washington DC offers grant programs to assist disabled people with expenses such as housing, food, clothing and utilities.
State Assistance
DC Department on Disability Services (DDS)
DDS provides a range of services and supports for individuals with disabilities in Washington, DC, including vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology resources and independent living skills training. By promoting independence and inclusion, DDS helps disabled residents of Washington, DC, achieve their goals and thrive in their communities. To find out more information, visit https://dds.dc.gov/.
DC Department of Employment Services (DOES)
DOES administers various programs and initiatives to support disabled people in Washington, DC, in their pursuit of employment and career advancement. Through job training programs, job placement services and disability accommodations assistance, DOES helps disabled residents access meaningful employment opportunities and achieve economic self-sufficiency. For more information, visit https://does.dc.gov/.
Health Assistance for Disabled People
DC Medicaid Program
The DC Medicaid program offers comprehensive healthcare coverage to eligible individuals with disabilities in Washington, DC, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications and mental health services. With a focus on preventive care and wellness, DC Medicaid ensures that disabled residents receive the care they need to thrive. Learn more about the program at https://dhcf.dc.gov/service/medicaid.
DC Healthcare Alliance
The DC Healthcare Alliance provides healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, including disabled residents of Washington, DC, who are not eligible for Medicaid. The DC Healthcare Alliance ensures access to essential healthcare services for all District residents. More information is available at https://dhcf.dc.gov/service/health-care-alliance.
Social Security
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Disabled people in Washington, DC, can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits to receive financial assistance for living expenses and medical needs. These programs provide crucial support to individuals with disabilities who are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to their impairments. For further information, visit https://www.ncoa.org/article/ssi-vs-ssdi-what-are-these-benefits-how-they-differ.
Ticket to Work Program
Washington, DC’s Ticket to Work Program offers disabled people opportunities for vocational rehabilitation and employment services while retaining their Social Security benefits. The program empowers disabled individuals to achieve their employment goals and financial independence. Learn more about the program at https://www.ssa.gov/work/.
Financial Assistance for Disabled People
DC Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families, including disabled residents of Washington, DC. SNAP offers electronic benefits for purchasing food to ensure that disabled individuals have access to nutritious meals and can maintain their health. Read more at https://dhs.dc.gov/service/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides financial assistance to individuals and families facing eviction or homelessness in Washington, DC, including disabled residents. The program aims to support individuals with disabilities in obtaining stable housing and avoiding displacement by providing rental subsidies and housing stabilization services. To learn more, visit https://dhs.dc.gov/service/emergency-rental-assistance-program.
Housing Assistance for Disabled People
DC Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP assists disabled individuals in managing their utility bills by providing financial aid for heating and cooling costs. The program offers bill payment assistance, weatherization services and energy efficiency upgrades to help disabled residents of Washington, DC stay comfortable throughout the year. To see more information, visit https://doee.dc.gov.
Charitable Assistance Programs
DC Central Kitchen
DC Central Kitchen operates food assistance programs to support disabled individuals and other vulnerable populations facing food insecurity in Washington, DC. Our organization provides nutritious meals, culinary job training and community partnerships to ensure that all District residents have access to food and economic opportunities. Read more at https://dccentralkitchen.org/.
DC Goodwill
DC Goodwill provides job training, employment placement and supportive services to disabled individuals seeking to enter or re-enter the workforce in Washington, DC. Their retail stores, career centers and workforce development programs are designed to empower disabled residents to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. To find out more information, visit https://washington.dc.networkofcare.org/veterans/services/agency.aspx?pid=goodwillofgreaterwashington_17_1348_1.
Transportation Assistance for Disabled People
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
WMATA provides accessible public transit services to disabled persons in Washington, DC, including bus and rail services equipped with wheelchair ramps and lifts. They also offer door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route transit. For more information, visit https://www.wmata.com/about/index.cfm.
DC Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV)
The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is responsible for regulating transportation services in Washington, DC, which includes wheelchair-accessible taxis and transportation network companies (TNCs). DFHV enforces accessibility standards, licenses and certifies drivers and ensures that disabled residents have reliable and accessible transportation options. For further information, visit https://dfhv.dc.gov/.
Legal Assistance for Disabled People
Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia (LASDC)
The Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia (LASDC) is a non-profit legal services organization dedicated to providing free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals and families in Washington, DC. LASDC offers a wide range of legal services, including representation in eviction proceedings, family law matters, public benefits appeals and consumer disputes. Through its team of dedicated attorneys and staff, LASDC strives to ensure equal access to justice for all residents of the District of Columbia, regardless of income or background. Read more at https://www.legalaiddc.org/.
Disability Rights DC at University Legal Services (DRDC)
DRDC provides advocacy, education and legal assistance to individuals with disabilities in Washington, DC, on disability-related legal issues, including discrimination, access to services and special education rights. With a focus on systemic advocacy and individual representation, DRDC works to promote equality and inclusion for all District residents. To see more information, visit https://www.uls-dc.org/programs/disability-rights-dc.
Business Support for Disabled People
DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD)
DSLBD offers resources and support for disabled entrepreneurs in Washington, DC, including business counseling, access to capital, and certification as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) or Certified Business Enterprise (CBE). They also help disabled individuals start and grow their businesses in the District. To learn more, visit https://dslbd.dc.gov/.
DC AccessAbility Program
The DC AccessAbility Program provides technical assistance, training, and resources to disabled entrepreneurs interested in starting or expanding businesses in Washington, DC. By promoting accessibility and inclusion in the business community, the program supports disabled individuals in achieving economic self-sufficiency and success. Learn more about the program at https://dc.gov/page/dcgov-accessibility-policy.
Assistance for Disabled Veterans
DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA)
MOVA offers a range of benefits and services for disabled veterans in Washington, DC. MOVA ensures that disabled veterans receive the support and resources they need to thrive in civilian life. For more information, visit https://communityaffairs.dc.gov/mova.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) – Department of Washington, DC
DAV provides assistance and advocacy for disabled veterans navigating the VA benefits system. DAV also helps veterans access benefits, obtain disability ratings, and navigate the appeals process to secure the benefits they deserve. For further information, visit https://www.dav.org/.
Assistance for Disabled Seniors
DC Office on Aging (DCOA)
The DC Office on Aging offers a variety of programs and services to support disabled seniors in Washington, DC, including home-based services, caregiver support, and elder abuse prevention initiatives. Read more at https://grade.dc.gov/page/dcoa.
AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE)
LCE provides free legal assistance and advocacy to disabled seniors in Washington, DC. They protect the rights and interests of disabled seniors and help them navigate aging with confidence. To learn more, visit https://www.probono.net/oppsguide/organization.147857-AARP_Legal_Counsel_for_the_Elderly.
