Support Services for Sickle Cell Patients and Caregivers

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.state.pa.us/

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
ticketsforkids.org/

 

 

 

Residential services for women with children (bridge housing):

Roselia Center

 

412-682-4410

Genesis

 

412-766-2693

Sisters Place

 

412-233-3903