To qualify, the request must relate directly to the child’s medical diagnosis or condition. Applications should include:

• The child’s medical diagnosis, condition, and duration of illness.
• An explanation of how the requested assistance will improve the child’s health or well-being.

Eligible children must:

• Be between the ages of 0 and 17.
• Live in San Diego or Imperial County with a custodial parent or guardian who intends to remain in the county permanently or indefinitely.

Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Child, parent, or guardian is currently enrolled in Medi-Cal.
• Military family enrolled in Tri-Care and must also be eligible for Medi-Cal.
• Child is enrolled in California Children’s Services (CCS).
• Child is enrolled in Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
• Family income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level if not enrolled in any of the programs described above.

Decisions are made in CHF’s sole discretion.
Referring partners are encouraged to contact us directly with any questions regarding eligibility.

Applications should also include a brief explanation of:

• Family financial circumstances, including others living in the home in order to show other potential forms of economic support.
• Relevant family dynamics that impact that child’s health and family’s financial support.
• Employment and financial status of parent(s) or guardian(s).
• Any extenuating circumstances that support the request.

Applicants must describe any public or private funding sources they have already pursued and the outcome of those requests. Failure to seek other available assistance, except for burial or cremation expenses, will result in an automatic denial.

Funding is limited to one lifetime award per eligible child.

Funding generally covers reasonable out-of-pocket expenses not paid by insurance.

• Average award: $300 (generally not to exceed $500)
• Adaptive equipment: Up to $800
• Burial or cremation: Up to $250 (funeral services are not covered)

• Self-referrals are not accepted.
• Submit one application per child.
• Applications must be submitted by a qualified professional, such as a licensed social worker or medical social worker, therapist, school counselor, medical professional, or a physician.

Funding may be available for:

• Emergency Family Services: Gift cards to major retailers such as Walmart.com or Amazon.com to purchase specific items for an eligible child. This also includes prepaid gas cards or ride share at the discretion of the funder to help defray the cost of gas to/from medical appointments for the child.
• Emergency Basic Needs: Specific items that will help make a positive impact on the health of the child, such as diapers, formula, supportive non-medical equipment, specialized car seats, portable bassinets.
• Special Diet: Special food or supplements as prescribed by a medical professional.
• Adaptive Equipment: Specialized equipment that helps with the special day-to-day medical needs of a child with disabilities.
• Dental: Dental treatments not otherwise covered by insurance. We do not cover orthodontic treatment.
• Cremation/Burial: Up to $250 toward the cost of cremation or burial for an infant or fetal death (20+ weeks gestation).
• Glasses: Pre-approved through San Diego Unified School District

• Home and delivery addresses will be verified.
• Children’s Health Foundation purchases approved items directly. Reimbursements are not permitted.
• Utilities, rent, home modifications, and cash assistance are not eligible.
• All assistance is provided solely for the benefit of the eligible child and cannot be granted for the general support of the family.