What Free Programs and Services Does debra of America Offer for EB Patients and Families?

debra of America is a U.S. national nonprofit that provides free, direct-to-patient programs for people living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) and their families. Its services cover wound care supplies, nurse guidance, support for newly diagnosed families, legal aid, mini-wishes, mentorship, and a care conference. Eligibility and how to request each service are described below based on the organization's own program pages.

Wound Care Distribution

debra of America distributes wound care supplies free of charge to individuals and families with EB in the United States. Supplies include bandages, dressings, ointments, and more.

• Who it's for: Individuals and families with EB located in the U.S.
• What you get: Bandages, dressings, ointments, and other wound care products at no cost.
• How to start: Use the "Learn more" link on the Wound Care Distribution program page to find the request process.

EB Nurse Educator Program

The EB Nurse Educator is available by phone and email to answer questions and provide guidance.

• Who it's for: Individuals with EB, their family members, the professional community, and the general public.
• What you get: Direct answers and guidance from a nurse educator by phone or email.
• How to start: Contact the EB Nurse Educator by phone or email through the program page.

New Family Advocate Program

This program provides a full support system to parents and caregivers of a newly diagnosed child with EB.

• Who it's for: Parents and caregivers of a newly diagnosed child with EB.
• What you get: A free care package with a wide range of wound care products, age-appropriate practical items, and educational information, plus ongoing support.
• How to start: Reach out through the New Family Advocate program page.

Legal Aid Program

The Legal Aid Program provides tools and guidance to help you advocate for yourself and your family when issues arise. Examples given by debra of America include a health insurance denial of coverage or a local education system not providing a child with needed assistance.

• Who it's for: EB patients and families facing access, insurance, or education-related problems.
• What you get: Tools and guidance for self-advocacy.
• How to start: Use the Legal Aid program page to request help.

Smile Fund

The Smile Fund fulfills mini-wishes with the goal of bringing joy to those living with EB. One Smile Fund winner is selected from a pool of applicants every month.

• Who it's for: People living with EB who apply.
• What you get: A mini-wish fulfilled.
• How to start: Apply through the Smile Fund program page; selection is monthly from the applicant pool.

Mentorship and debra Care Conference

debra of America also lists a Mentorship program and the debra Care Conference among its programs and services. These connect patients and families with mentors and with the broader EB community through organized events.

• Who it's for: EB patients and families looking for peer connection and community events.
• How to start: Check the Mentorship and debra Care Conference pages for participation details.

Programs at a Glance

How to Get Started

1. Go to debra.org and open the "Our Programs & Services" section.
2. Select the program that matches your situation (wound care, nurse, new family, legal aid, Smile Fund, mentorship, or conference).
3. Follow the "Learn more" link on that program page for the specific contact method or request form.
4. For general updates, you can subscribe to emails through the "Get Involved" section.

If you are unsure which program fits, the EB Nurse Educator is the broadest entry point because it serves patients, families, the professional community, and the general public by phone and email.