Couples may need grant money to pay for IVF.
Infertility can affect up to one in six couples who are trying to conceive. Having a baby is an important part of their family life plan and many are willing to undergo testing and procedures to make it happen. While desire is part of the equation, so is money, and unfortunately procedures cost a lot. In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF, has been successful for many participants. Certain couples may qualify for grants and subsidies.
Significance
Unfortunately, over 2 million couples in the United States have infertility issues that can only be dealt with through IVF. The cost of such procedures are generally within the $10,000 to $15,000 range and is prohibitive for many of these couples. Many of these couples simply cannot afford the treatments, and without financial assistance they are doomed to suffering. The creation of organizations that offer financial assistance to these couples have helped many babies be born bringing joy to many families.
History
Up until the 1990s there were no organizations that dealt specifically with the problem of assisting couple who were dealing with infertility and did not have the means to pay for treatment. These couples either continued in other efforts or tried to fundraise themselves. In most cases where the couple was informed that the only possible way to conceive would be through IVF, the couple simply remained childless. Even grants that exist today can not meet the needs of all couples wishing to conceive.
Most of the organizations were started by doctors in the field or other couples who experienced infertility and want to help others in the same situation. The Madeleine Gordon Gift of Life Foundation was started in 1995. The Creating Miracles Grant is sponsored by the Angels of Hope Organization, which was started in 2005. The Fertile Dreams Embracing Hope Grant was started in 2006.
Purpose
The organizations that were created each have a different purpose, although the general scope remains the same for all --- to assist couples who have a medical need for IVF treatments and can demonstrate lack of funds to support the endeavor.
The Angels of Hope Organization was started to help ease the burden of those who suffer from the absence of a child. The Madeleine Gordon Gift of Life Foundation aims to ease the emotional and financial burdens of those undergoing fertility treatments. The Partnership for Families funding is limited to couples who have already had one, unsuccessful attempt at IVF and cannot afford another try.
Qualifications
Requirements for the Creating Miracles Grant are legal marriage, little or no insurance, no children, likelihood of success as recommended by a doctor, and demonstration of a proper living environment for a baby.
Inciid requires couples who apply to show proof of medical and financial need, which can include pay stubs and medical records. Chosen couples must fundraise a small amount to subsidize the treatment.
To apply for the Madeleine Gordon Grant the foundation requires that the couple have no previous children, have not previously undergone IVF treatments, demonstrate financial and medical need and be in good health.
Location
Couples need to be undergoing fertility treatments at any U.S. fertility center to qualify for the Fertile Dreams Embracing Hope Grant. Applicants can be anywhere in the U.S. and need to demonstrate a stable home. The Creating Miracles Grant gives preference to those living in close to proximity to Morris, Illinois. The Madeleine Gordon Gift of Life Foundation requires applicants to live in the the greater Cincinnati, Ohio, area. The Partnership for Families is operated by the Cleveland Clinic Women's Health Institute and is meant for those living in the area.
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