At ALS United Mid-Atlantic, we believe that every individual impacted by ALS deserves compassionate, coordinated support — especially in their own home. Our In-Home Care Program and related support initiatives work together to help people with ALS live with comfort, dignity, and choice while easing the physical, emotional, and financial burdens faced by caregivers and families.
“We are one of the only organizations (the only that I know of) that provides support for hands-on care. It is the thing oftentimes that families need most, and we are able to help them make that happen. Many families have said, “this is such a relief” to know that there is some help out there,” stated ALS United Mid-Atlantic Social Worker, Jessie Meier, LSW, MSW.
Howard I. Abrams In-Home Care Program
The Howard I. Abrams In-Home Care Program provides vital financial support in the form of grants for in-home caregiving services and respite care. These grants help families access paid caregiving; giving people with ALS help with daily living activities such as:
- Personal care like bathing, dressing, and mobility assistance
- Support with meals, safe transfers, and other activities of daily living
- Respite care so family caregivers can rest, attend to other responsibilities, and maintain their own wellbeing
“Choosing to get in-home care is usually very difficult for families. They feel guilty or are nervous about who may be caring for your loved one. It is natural to feel this way,” said Program Coordinator Larissa Gibbons. “[Our] social workers can guide the families to the right resources within and outside of our organization.”
By helping to offset the cost of in-home care, this program increases safety and quality of life while keeping people connected to the familiar environment of their own home.
Supporting Caregivers Through the CARE Act
Caring for someone with ALS often involves round-the-clock attention and evolving health needs. In recognition of the essential role that family caregivers play, ALS United Mid-Atlantic also highlights and supports resources connected to the In-Home Caregiver Assessment Resources & Education (CARE) Act of 2025 Act. This is Senator Cory Booker’s advocacy initiative focused on strengthening caregiver support and education in New Jersey.
The CARE Act is centered on helping family caregivers, especially as individuals transition from hospital to home care. While the specific scope of the Act can vary, its underlying goals include:
- Recognizing and supporting family caregivers as part of the care team
- Encouraging access to caregiver education and instruction for medical and daily-living tasks
- Improving understanding of what caregiving responsibilities will look like once at home
For families affected by ALS, knowing what resources and legal protections like the CARE Act can offer, particularly around transitions from hospital care to home care, is an important part of planning for the future. We help guide caregivers in understanding these types of support and how they intersect with in-home caregiving services.
Our in-home care initiatives are part of a broader suite of services at ALS United Mid-Atlantic designed to support people with ALS and their families throughout the progression of the disease. In addition to home care grants and caregiver resources, we offer:
- Multidisciplinary care coordination with clinical partners
- Equipment loan programs and accessibility support
- Educational webinars, resource groups, and caregiver tools
- Transportation and assistive technology programs dedicated to enhancing independence
Together, these services help families navigate a complex care journey with the reassurance of experienced support and advocacy at every step.
“Not everyone knows how to care for a person with ALS. Prior to having a consistent, experienced CNA, leaving Mike was extremely stressful. Having this grant means we could hire a trusted caregiver. It’s one less thing to worry about right now,” said ALS caregiver, Liz Powell.
Whether you’re exploring in-home care options, seeking financial support for caregiving, or learning more about caregiver-focused policies like the CARE Act, ALS United Mid-Atlantic is here to help. Our goal is to empower those living with ALS and the caregivers who support them, so no one must go through this alone.
“Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.” — L.R. Knost
Learn more about how our care programs can support you and your family by visiting https://alsmidatlantic.org/navigating-als/our-care-services/.