FAQ's
Your Questions Answered
We understand that kidney disease brings many questions, whether you're a patient seeking help, a family member looking for information, or a community member wanting to support our mission. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often.
Patient Services & Assistance
Who is eligible for patient assistance?
We serve kidney disease patients (chronic kidney disease, stage 4 and beyond) and their family members who live in our 12-county service area (9 Tennessee counties and 3 Georgia counties) or receive treatment at area dialysis clinics. Must be within 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines for the entire household.
How do I apply for assistance?
All applications must come through your dialysis clinic or transplant clinic social worker. If you don't have a social worker or need help connecting with one, call us at (423) 265-4397. We cannot accept direct applications from patients, but we can help you navigate the process.What types of assistance do you provide?
We provide direct assistance with: transportation to dialysis/renal appointments, utility bills (electric, water, gas, phone), medical equipment, food and nutritional supplements, family support items (formula, diapers, school supplies), emergency home pest control services, and more.
How quickly is assistance provided?
Applications are typically reviewed within 24 hours. Approved assistance is paid directly to vendors.
Can I apply for assistance multiple times?
Yes, patients can reapply for assistance as needs arise. We understand that kidney disease creates ongoing financial challenges, and we're here to provide support throughout your journey.
Donations & Giving
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Tax ID: 62-1410005). You'll receive a donation receipt for tax purposes immediately after your online donation or by mail for check donations.How do I know my money stays local?
We are completely independent from the National Kidney Foundation and receive no national funding and do not participate in national programs. This independence guarantees that 100% of your donation stays in the Greater Chattanooga area to help local patients. To ensure local accountability and fiscal resposnibility, we are audited yearly by a leading accounting firm
What types of donations do you accept?
We accept online donations (one-time, monthly, or roundup giving), checks, major gifts, memorial/tribute gifts, and some in-kind donations. We do NOT accept vehicle donations, furniture pickups, or soda can tabs.What kinds of in-kind donations do you NOT accept?
We do not accept: donated cars/vehicles, furniture or household items requiring pickup, soda can tabs/pop tabs, or items requiring storage or processing. We focus on direct financial assistance rather than goods redistribution.Can I donate in memory of someone?
Yes, memorial and tribute gifts are welcome. We'll send appropriate acknowledgment to designated recipients and can coordinate with families for memorial gift notifications.
Service Area & Eligibility
What areas do you serve?
We serve patients in a 12-county region: 9 Tennessee counties (Hamilton, Bradley, Bledsoe, McMinn, Polk, Rhea, Meigs, Sequatchie, Marion) and 3 Georgia counties (Catoosa, Dade, Walker). Our office is located at 931 McCallie Ave in Chattanooga.What if I live outside your service area?
If you live outside our 12-county service area, we recommend contacting your local kidney foundation or the National Kidney Foundation for assistance programs in your region.
Are there other kidney foundations in Tennessee?
We are the only independent kidney foundation in the greater Chattanooga region. Other local, independent kidney foundations serve other parts of Tennessee, specifically the East TN Kidney Foundation (Knoxville area) and the Tennessee Kidney Foundation (Nashville area). Neither of these organizations, nor ours, are affiliated with the National Kidney Foundation; we are all separate, local non-profits.
About Our Organization
How are you different from the National Kidney Foundation?
We are a completely independent, local nonprofit, not a chapter or affiliate of the National Kidney Foundation. 100% of donations stay local and serve patients in our 12-county service area. Our independence allows us to respond quickly to local needs and maintain direct relationships with the community we serve.
How do you decide how to use donations?
67% of our budget goes to patient services, 23% to community education and prevention programs, and 10% to operational costs. This allocation ensures maximum impact while maintaining sustainable operations. All budgetary items have oversight by the board of directors and are audited by a leading accounting firm.
Can I volunteer with your organization?
Our volunteer opportunities are mostly associated with events and projects that come about periodically. If you are interested in volunteering in either of those aspects, please contact us to discuss opportunities.
Are your board members paid?
No, our 20 volunteer board members serve without compensation. Board service is voluntary and focused on governance and community support.How do I join your board of directors?
Contact us via email.
Getting Help & Information
What is the best way to contact you?
Call or text: (423) 265-4397 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM). Email: info@kidneyfoundation.com for non-urgent questions.
Do you provide medical advice?
No, we do not provide medical advice or treatment recommendations. We can help connect you with healthcare resources and provide information about kidney disease, but all medical decisions should be made with your healthcare team.Can you help me find a kidney transplant?
While we do not directly provide transplant services, we can help you understand resources available through Erlanger's transplant center and provide assistance with transportation to transplant-related appointments.