Our Services

Support Services

Below is a list of support services and local resources compiled by Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC’s Sickle Cell Program staff to assist parents who have concerns about housing, utilities or employment. The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America provides additional information about support services for families dealing with sickle cell disease.

Housing

Children’s sickle cell social worker will assist families of children with sickle cell disease find adequate housing through agencies such as the office of Housing and Urban Development. Verification of medical diagnosis may be needed. For more information, contact Tia Martin, MSW, at 412-692-6072 or tia.martin@chp.edu.

Utilities

If meeting your utilities bill is a concern, first talk directly to your utility carrier. Next, the public utility commission may offer additional options at www.puc.paonline.com.

Remember: think ahead. Call before your service is terminated. Options are limited once service is turned off. Contact Tia Martin, MSW, at 412-692-6072 or tia.martin@chp.edu if you require further assistance or proof of medical diagnosis.

Employment

Employment issues may cause extra stress for patients and families dealing with sickle cell disease. Be proactive. For the best outcome, discuss your situation in advance with your employer. Children’s Sickle Cell Program staff can assist you with employment concerns, such as applying for Family or Medical Leave (FMLA). For more information, contact Tia Martin, MSW, at 412-692-6072 or tia.martin@chp.edu.

Health Insurance/SSI: Disability

No child should be without health insurance. In the state of Pennsylvania, options include Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) as well as social security/disability benefits. For more information about the option that best suits your needs, contact Tia Martin, MSW, at 412-692-6072 or tia.martin@chp.edu.

Lodging

During times your child may be hospitalized, please view our list of overnight accommodations for parents and siblings.

Other Local Resources

Counseling and Family Services:
Catholic Charities of Diocese of Pittsburgh		412-456-6999
Family Services		412-281-2328
Family Links		412-343-7166
Magee-Womens Behavioral Health		412-624-4577

Day Care Information:
Information Services		412-261-2273/1-800-392-3131

Domestic Abuse Help:
Women’s Center and Shelter		412-565-2146
Womanspace East		412-350-5801
Domestic Violence Hotline		412-255-1155

Housing Services:
Urban League		412-227-4812
Allegheny County Housing-sect 8		412-355-2189

Infant/Maternity Clothing Support:
Welcome Little Ones		412-391-6862

Legal Services:
YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh		412-391-5100
Neighborhood Legal Services		412-255-6700
Legal Advocacy Office		412-355-7400

Parenting Classes and Support:
Family Resources Warmline		412-641-4546
Family Resources		412-562-9440
Healthy Start		412-247-1000
Parents Without Partners		412-321-0198
Healthy Start Male Initiative		412-247-1000

Prenatal Classes:
Magee-Womens Hospital		412-641-4492

Reduced Price Entertainment:
Tickets for Kids		412-781-5437 www.ticketsforkidsfoundation.org

Residential services for women with children (bridge housing):
Roselia Center		412-682-4410
Genesis		412-766-2693
Sisters Place		412-233-3903