Our Programs
The Big Puddle operates targeted programs designed to fill critical funding gaps for vulnerable populations. Each program addresses specific barriers that prevent people from accessing the care and support they deserve.
What We Fund
The Big Puddle fills specific gaps in care. We provide funding when individuals or service providers encounter barriers such as:
• Support staff required for mental health inpatient treatment acceptance
• Companion care during hospital stays or after discharge
• Rental assistance for independent living with disabilities
• Training for organizations on specific treatment protocols
• Cross-agency care coordination during transitions between facilities
• Employment and skills training programs
• Assistive technology and adaptive equipment
We evaluate each funding request individually, focusing on immediate needs that would otherwise go unmet. Below is a list of programs partners we work with.
THE HELEN PROJECT
Preventing Homelessness for People with Disabilities
Many individuals with disabilities face housing instability when leaving hospitals or transitioning out of group homes. The Helen Project addresses the gap between disability income and market-rate rents by providing housing security through rental assistance and expanded housing options.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• Emergency rental assistance
• Security deposit funding
• Housing transition support
• Connections to stable housing resources
The Helen Project ensures that people with disabilities have safe, stable housing as they work toward independence.
EQUIMIND PROJECT
Equitable Access to Mental Health Services
People with disabilities—particularly those who are nonverbal or have communication barriers—frequently encounter "no" when seeking mental health treatment. The EquiMind Project creates equitable access by funding the supports that make mental health care possible.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• Support staff for mental health appointments and inpatient stays
• Adaptive communication tools and technology
• Provider training on serving clients with disabilities
• Funding for specialized mental health programs
The EquiMind Project ensures that disability status doesn't determine who can access mental health care.
THE NOAH PROJECT
Supporting Nonverbal Individuals
Named for founder Maria Duerson's nonverbal autistic son, The Noah Project provides companion care for individuals who cannot advocate for themselves across hospitals, clinics, mental health facilities, and other care settings.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• Hospital companion support
• Medical appointment assistance
• Communication support during care
• Caregiver training and resources
The Noah Project bridges funding gaps so that people who cannot speak for themselves receive equitable treatment and dignified care.
THE ABILITIES PROJECT
Hands-On Training Through Apprenticeships
The best training is hands-on experience. The Abilities Project funds provider agencies to create paid apprenticeship positions for people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those facing mental health challenges.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• Apprenticeship program funding
• On-the-job training support
• Committee-led quality improvement programs within facilities
• Employment pathway development
The Abilities Project improves both employment outcomes for vulnerable populations and quality of care through skilled, trained staff.
APPLY FOR FUNDING
Are you a service provider, hospital, or community organization that has identified a client need falling outside traditional funding sources? Are you an individual who needs support that insurance won't cover and government programs exclude?
We evaluate requests on a case-by-case basis. Contact us to discuss how The Big Puddle might help.