A long-term illness followed by kidney failure takes its toll both physically and financially on kidney patients. The National Kidney Foundation of Florida provides assistance to Florida patients in need. Requests can be made for assistance with medications, transportation to and from dialysis, and emergency one-time grants. To apply for these funds, patients must contact their renal social worker and complete an application. The National Kidney Foundation of Florida works through the Boggy Creek Gang Camp to provide a camping experience for children ages 7 to 16 with kidney failure or a kidney transplant.
Children are medically supervised, and all treatment modalities take place on site.
The Renal Employment Program facilitates the employment of those patients who are willing and medically able to work. It is designed to provide access to supportive services, such as counseling, job training, and job placement assistance. Beginning July 2000 the program will go on the road with a travelling workshop entitled RISE - Rehabilitation, Information, Support and Empowerment. The program offers kidney patients a chance to assess their skills, values and interests in relation to their quality of life and career goals. Topics discussed include resume writing, interviewing skills, rights and responsibilities of individuals with kidney disease, rehabilitation services, and insurance.