My 9 yr old nephew was diagnosed with ADD a couple years ago. He can do his school/homework if he applies himself, but often gets distracted. He was always the last one to finish assignments in class.
His Mom found a website/ebook (The ADHD/ADD Natural Remedy Report) that was incredibly helpful: www.clickaudit.com/goto/?138318
For some people ADHD/ADD is caused primarily by inherited genetic factors. While others experience symptoms due to their diet, hormonal imbalances or even allergies.
Some of the things she found on this site that helped him the most were about nutritional deficiencies ... Omega 3 Fatty Acids. There was information on how massage calms not only the body, but also calms the brain!
She also set up a reward system, which my nephew thinks is a game ... He has improved tremendously!
Hope this is helpful,
Keith
P.S. Here's that link again to the "The ADHD/ADD Natural Remedy Report"
http://www.clickaudit.com/goto/?138318
You could apply for Janssen Ortho Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Assistance Program. Patient assistance programs offer free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications.
Alternatively, Wal-mart offers generic methylphenidate for $4/month. Concerta is a special formulation of methylphenidate that lasts longer. Generic methylphenidate is much cheaper, but is generally taken 2-3 times per day.