NOTICE: Giving in Action expects to be able to provide Family Independence Fund (FIF) grants throughout 2012 and early 2013. However, due to a backlog of applications and depleting funds, we will not accept new FIF Letters of Inquiry (LOI) after June 29, 2012. All LOIs received on or before June 29th will be reviewed in order of receipt and considered based on eligibility and availability of funds. 

Once we have reviewed all LOIs and applications in progress, and are able to assess our financial position, we will provide an update on remaining funds that may be available for new requests in early 2013.

The Family Independence Fund helps families throughout the province who have children or adults with developmental disabilities living at home.

Grants from the Family Independence Fund help with the care of the relative by providing one time grants to support projects such as home renovations — including lifts, elevators, ramps, flooring, door widening — or vehicle modifications that enable the individual with the developmental disability to live in the family home and access their community.

Do I Qualify?

The Family Independence Fund defines a developmental disability as:

• Low IQ
• Manifests before the age of 18
• Concurrent with impaired adaptive functioning

In addition, all individuals who are eligible for support from Community Living British Columbia (CLBC) are qualified to apply. Individuals with the disability must reside in their family home, (or family-supported home).

Preference is given to families that indicate their request for support is part of a long-term plan for their relative.

Note that families who receive support from other government-funded programs are still eligible for Family Independence Fund grants.  However these additional funds must complement — versus duplicate — the government support.

The Family Independence Fund was established with financial assistance from Community Living of British Columbia.