The New Jersey Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund Commission provides financial assistance to families of children who have experienced a serious illness or medical condition that has resulted in extraordinary uncovered medical expenses.
Established by legislation in 1988, this state fund is unique in the nation because families of any income may qualify. The fund does not limit coverage to specific diseases or diagnoses, and defines “catastrophic” in economic terms rather than medical.
Since the program began making awards in late 1989, it has approved more than $86 million to more than 3,500 families, according to a press release. The average award is $24,000, but the range extends from a low of $470 to the largest single award of over $900,000.
For more information on the fund, call (800) 335-3863.