The Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC) has limited CARES Act Supplemental Funding to distribute to consumers. Requests for funds must specifically focus on needs that are the direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds are given to support direct services, activities, supplies and technology that help people with disabilities stay connected to reconnect with the services and supports they need to stay safely in their homes.

Eligibility- In order to be eligible for ILCKC CARES Act funding, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Person with a significant disability
  • Registered ILCKC consumer, or ability to become a consumer
  • The need for funds is directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Must be able to submit documentation supporting use of CARES Act funds (such as an eviction notice, past-due bill, layoff notice, etc.)

The COVID pandemic has created many barriers and situations that affect people with disabilities and we cannot list every possible impact. Below are examples of allowable COVID-19 related expenses. You may have different or additional needs that are not listed here. Even if you don’t see your specific need listed, we recommend you complete the attached applications and tell us about your personal COVID-related situation and need for financial assistance.

CARES Act Funding Requests- Examples include but are not limited to:

  • Technology-  The devices, training, or technology needed to support connecting to education, services, and/or activities.
    • Examples include laptops, tablets, cellphones, assistive technology, and/or WIFI hot spots
    • Funding may also be requested to support the training necessary for you to effectively use the technology and equipment needed to stay connected.
  • COVID-19 Related Supplies- The good and services that advance your safety and health, and address COVID-19 related needs.
    • Supplies such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, etc.
    • Personal care necessities such as toilet paper, soap, etc.
    • Goods that address food insecurity
  • Independent Living- 
    • Rent and Utilities
      • Past Due Rent and utility bills that are a direct result of financial hardship due to COVID-19.
      • Examples of financial hardship include: layoff due to COVID-19, reduction of hours due to COVID-19, becoming sick with COVID-19 and being unable to keep up with bills. *Please note that documentation is required to prove financial hardship has occurred as a direct result of the pandemic.
    • Transition/Diversion Services
      • Services and activities that assist individuals with disabilities who are at risk of being institutionalized to remain in their communities.
      • Services and activities that assist individuals with disabilities to move from an institutional setting to a home in a community-based setting.

Questions considered when processing applications:

  • Are the funds being requested for an eligible ILCKC consumer?
  • Is the need directly related to COVID-19?
  • Are the funds needed to maintain access to services and activities such as doctors, education, and/or support services, during the COVID-19 stay-at-home order?
  • Are the funds necessary to ensure personal safety? For example, to help purchase medicine or pay bills due to loss of income directly related to COVID-19?
  • Was this need documented BEFORE or AFTER COVID-19? Timing of the need may impact determination.

The CARES Act specifies that money MUST be used for items that are “necessary.” Funds may not be used to address financial issues or cover costs that are not directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Application Process- Funds are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is available until September 2021, or until all funds have been distributed, whichever comes first. Please complete the application below in as much detail as possible.