Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced a new grant program aimed at providing financial assistance to families of children with disabilities, a population that was disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The $5 million Diverse Learners Recovery Fund will provide one-time grants of $500 to up to 8,000 eligible K-12 students through a lottery.

“Our young people with disabilities face unique challenges but we are committed to their success and these grants are one way through which we are able to directly invest in them,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Commissioner Rachel Arfa from the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities stated, “The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund is part of our ongoing commitment to making Chicago the most accessible and inclusive city in the world.”

Jamal Malone, CEO of Ada S. McKinley Community Services, highlighted the importance of the fund, saying, “The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund will provide some relief. These funds can be used to pay for medical expenses, supplemental education resources, or other necessary accommodations.”

The program, funded by The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLRF) program authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), aims to address the negative economic impact that COVID-19 has had on Chicago students with disabilities and their families.

To apply for the Diverse Learners Recovery Fund, families need to satisfy specific criteria and can apply online at www.AdaMOPD.com. The program uses a lottery selection method, and submitting an eligible application does not guarantee receiving a grant.