Because No One Should Go Without Food, Medication, or Care Due to Financial Hardship

about us

Seniors, Veterans, and Disabled Health Initiative for Emotional and Lifelong Development (SHIELD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals who face financial barriers to basic health and wellness needs. SHIELD was created to serve people who are often forced to make impossible choices between food, medications, medical supplies, and essential care. Our mission is simple but critical: to protect health, dignity, and stability for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities when resources are limited.

What we do

SHIELD provides practical, immediate assistance to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, including:

Food and grocery assistance
Help with medication copays and essential prescriptions
Support for durable medical equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, and safety devices
Assistance with medical and mental health copays
Short-term emergency support to prevent gaps in care

Our focus is on meeting real-life needs that directly impact health, safety, and quality of life.

Why Shield Exists

Many individuals do not qualify for enough assistance through traditional programs, or they fall through the cracks due to fixed incomes, rising healthcare costs, or unexpected emergencies. Without support, these barriers can quickly lead to worsening health, hospitalization, or loss of independence.

SHIELD exists to bridge that gap by providing compassionate, community-based support when it is needed most.

who we serve

Seniors on fixed incomes
Veterans facing financial or health-related challenges
Individuals with physical, cognitive, or mental health disabilities
Community members experiencing temporary financial hardship

Our services are designed to reduce stress, promote stability, and support long-term well-being.

our approach

We believe support should be:

Dignified – preserving independence and respect
Accessible – removing unnecessary barriers
Practical – addressing immediate needs
Community-focused – rooted in local care and connection

SHIELD works alongside healthcare providers, caregivers, and community partners to ensure assistance is thoughtful, appropriate, and impactful. on fixed incomes

our commitment

SHIELD is currently supported through personal investment and community contributions as we build a sustainable foundation for long-term impact. Every dollar raised is used to support our mission and expand access to essential resources for those in need. As we grow, our goal is to reach more individuals, strengthen partnerships, and continue providing critical assistance that helps people stay healthy, housed, and supported.

how you can help

Community support makes this work possible. Donations help fund:

Emergency food and grocery assistance
Medication and medical supply support
Copay and access-to-care assistance

Together, we can ensure that no one has to go without basic health needs due to financial hardship.

Tinley Park, Il

SHIELD is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.