FSR is a proud member of NORD, the National Organization for Rare Disorders. On April 15th, NORD announced the creation of a program to provide financial assistance for members of the rare disease community who have been impacted by COVID-19. Read the release below or on NORD’s website.
Washington, DC, April 15, 2020— At this time of crisis and with the health, safety and well-being of patients and caregivers as its top priorities, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD®) today launched its COVID-19 Critical Relief Program to provide much-needed assistance to members of the rare community affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides financial relief that may be utilized to support critical, non-medical needs.
“Providing financial assistance to help meet the unique needs of the rare disease community has been central to our mission for over 37 years,” said Jill Pollander, RN, MSN, Director of Patient Services for NORD. “The NORD COVID-19 Critical Relief Program enables us to provide desperately needed support to rare disease community members whose lives have been directly impacted by the current pandemic.”
Through the new program, NORD will provide financial assistance to eligible patients, covering up to $1,000 annually. It provides funds for essential expenses including, but not limited to unexpected utility expenses; cellular or internet service; emergency repairs to car, home or major appliances; and rent or mortgage payment assistance. Interested rare disease patients and families can reach out to NORD to find out if they meet eligibility requirements.
For more information on the NORD COVID-19 Critical Relief Program and to apply, please contact NORD by telephone at 203.242.0497, via email at COVID19assistance@rarediseases.org, or visit rarediseases.org. To show your support, please consider making a donation to the program so that even more people can be helped. Finally, to stay informed, the NORD COVID-19 resource center presents information and links relevant to the rare community during this pandemic.