As detailed in the August 18 article, “Grant loss may hinder doctor visits,” 33 desert residents with disabilities who rely on the Independent Living Partnership (ILP) for assistance to access needed healthcare services were poised to lose their benefits. But thanks to gap funding provided by Angel View Crippled Children’s Foundation, Inc., that crisis has been averted, announced Richard Smith, ILP executive director.
“We utilize grant funds to provide mileage reimbursement for seniors and adults with disabilities. The miles we cover help them access essential medical services and supplies,” Smith explained. “Last year, ILP was awarded funding from the Regional Access Project that enabled 33 individuals with disabilities to receive mileage reimbursement. When we learned that grant had not been renewed, it left very vulnerable individuals with no way to reimburse volunteer drivers.”
Enter Angel View. According to Melvyn Haber, president of Angel View’s board, “Our mission is to assist children and adults with disabilities to reach their maximum potential. They can’t reach their potential if they’re unable to get to medical and therapy appointments. As soon as our board learned of their plight through The Desert Sun article, we voted unanimously to provide gap funding while the Independent Living Partnership works out a more permanent funding solution.”
Typically, Angel View provides services directly. The organization has built and operates 19 intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled (ICF/DD homes). Angel View also runs a Day Program for adults with disabilities weekdays at its Desert Hot Springs headquarters and an Outreach Program for local families raising children with disabilities. “Unlike a lot of local foundations, our primary purpose is not to distribute funds to other organizations,” Haber notes. “We’re in the same situation as Independent Living Partnership. We raise funds in every way possible – through grants, donations, fundraisers. But this need falls well within our mission. We were very happy to be able to assist.”
For nearly 20 years, the TRIP Program, operated by the non-profit Independent Living Partnership (ILP), has been helping people in the Coachella Valley travel to needed healthcare appointments and other lifeline services. TRIP clients are seniors and those with disabilities who do not drive, have no family to help, and are not able to use public transportation. Some TRIP funding is provided by the Riverside County Office on Aging. But additional funding is needed.
“A contribution of as little as $25 a month will mean that a Coachella Valley resident will receive five needed rides,” Smith pointed out. “Anyone interested in supporting this important program for seniors and individuals with disabilities can contact us at (951) 653-0740 or can email info@angelview.org.”
Since 1991, the Independent Living Partnership has been empowering the elderly and people with disabilities through life enriching programs to strengthen and rebuild social networks, assist them in accessing needed human and social services, and maintain a more healthy and independent life style.
