Frequently Asked Questions
Q – What are the deadlines for applying for a grant?
A – February 1, May 1, August 1, November 1
Q - How do I submit a grant application?
A - Download and complete the application from www.smallstepsinspeech.org. Completed applications may be mailed, emailed, or faxed. Application must be the December 2016 version. Applications received on prior forms will not be accepted.
Q - Once my application is complete, when will I find out if I was awarded a grant?
A - Applications are reviewed and awarded on a quarterly basis by the Board of Directors. Notification emails are sent to the person applying for the grant within 60 days after the application deadline. See the timeline below for other important dates.
Q - If I receive a grant, when will it begin?
A - Grants for the February deadline begin April 21st, grants for the May deadline begin July 21st, grants for the August deadline begin October 21st and grants for the November deadline begin January 21st. (See chart below)
Q – What are the age requirements for grant applications?
A – We accept grant applications for individuals from age 3 to 22. Please note when applying for a grant, the child must be 3 years of age at the application deadline.
Q – Do you have to be a legal citizen of the United States of America?
A – YES
Q – Do you only award grants in the state of New Jersey?
A – NO, SSIS awards grants to children and organizations within the 50 United States.
Q – Can I receive grant monies for previous services?
A – NO, awarded grants can only be used for future services.
Q – I received a grant from SSIS, can I apply again?
A – NO, Effective January 1, 2019, Small Steps in Speech will only accept grant applications for individuals who have not previously received and utilized a Small Steps in Speech grant.
Q – Can I apply for a grant for an iPad?
A – NO, as of November 2012, SSIS is no longer awarding grants for iPads. However, you can apply for a grant to be used toward an assistive technology device and/or iPad apps. A formal Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Evaluation from a qualified service provider must be included stating that different pieces of technology have been trialed and what you are requesting is the best fit for a means of communication.
Q – Are grants based on financial need?
A – Grants are not based solely on financial need. The financial needs of the family are considered, however, applications will not be accepted for a joint family income in excess of $125,000.
Q – If my child is denied a grant, when can I re-apply?
A – Applicants may apply for a grant one time per calendar year unless they can provide proof that the need (financial, medical, developmental, etc.) has changed.
Q – I am applying for services for the summer months, when should I apply for a grant?
A – In order to be eligible for services provided during the summer months, you would need to apply at the February 1st deadline.
Q - Can I apply for a grant for a summer speech camp?
A - Yes. You would need to submit the application for the February 1st deadline in order to be eligible for summer services if awarded. A grant for camp, if awarded, is not likely to exceed $1,000.
Q – How do I find a local service provider?
A – Contact your local school or American Speech and Hearing Association www.asha.org
Q – Am I allowed to apply for a grant to receive ABA therapy?
A – NO, as of August 1, 2014, we will not accept applications for Applied Behavior Therapy (ABA).
Q – Can I apply for a grant for a device?
A – We will consider applications for communication devices however our awards will not exceed $1200.
Q – What is the average amount of an awarded grant?
A – Our average grant award is $1000.
Q – Can I switch therapy providers after submitting an application or if I have an existing grant?
A – Yes. First, confirm that the new provider will accept the requirements of the SSIS contract. Second, contact SSIS with the therapy provider’s information. However, the grant dollar amount will not change.
Q – Can I apply for more than one child?
A – Yes, each child or organization must have its own application.
Q – My speech therapist is not ASHA certified, can I use them as my provider?
A – No, all therapists must be ASHA certified.
Q – Can we apply for a grant on behalf of an organization?
A – No, effective November 2, 2016 Small Steps in Speech is no longer accepting applications from organizations.
Q – How can I financially help support the work of SSIS?
A – Bake sales, walks, jeans day, in lieu of holiday/special occasions, direct donations through our website, employee match donations, United Way, birthday and memorial gifts. Please feel free to contact us at info@smallstepsinspeech.org if you have other questions or ideas to help support SSIS.
If you have any other questions, please contact us at info@smallstepsinspeech.org
Proceed to the application pages for Individuals.
