Our Family Reimbursement Program offers vital financial aid to families caring for people with developmental disabilities in New York City.
Supported by the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, AHRC NYC’s Family Reimbursement Program, also known as the Francesca Nicosia Fund, aims to alleviate financial burdens for families and enhance the quality of life for those they support.
The Nicosia Fund provides reimbursement awards of up to $3000 to assist people with developmental
disabilities living with their families. These funds cover expenses for goods and/or services not available
through existing programs or funding sources.
What Goods or Services May Be Requested?
Requests may include a variety of goods and short-term services aimed at enhancing the quality of life
for the person with a disability, such as:
- Adaptive equipment (not covered by Medicaid)
- Summer camp
- Adaptive toys
- Clothing
- Respite
* For a comprehensive listing of allowable / non-allowable goods and services, please visit the OPWDD website.
Who Can Apply?
Families in New York City living with a person diagnosed with a developmental disability, determined to be OPWDD eligible, may apply. Additionally, Care Managers can submit applications on behalf of the people they support.
What Happens When a Family Applies?
Families submit an application with proof of OPWDD eligibility and necessary documentation, including a receipt or estimate for goods or services. The reimbursement coordinator may request additional information if needed.
Who Decides if Assistance is Given?
Once the application is complete, the administrator presents the family’s request for reimbursement to a committee composed of people with developmental disabilities and/or their family members, as well as AHRC New York City staff. This committee makes decisions regarding grant awards. Final approval is then given by the borough DDRO.
How to Apply for Reimbursement
To apply for reimbursement, please download and review the following form, and submit your completed forms after reviewing the Family Reimbursement Application Checklist:
- Family Reimbursement Guidelines
- OPWDD FSS Family Reimbursement Application
- OPWDD Family Reimbursement Respite Verification Form
- AHRC Family Reimbursement Attestation Letter
Once complete, please send the application package to:
AHRC Family Reimbursement Programs
83 Maiden Lane, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10038
For questions regarding the Family Reimbursement Programs, please call: 917-715-8035 or email AHRCFamilyReimbursementPrograms@ahrcnyc.org