Clinical-Community Connections

UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Community Health recognizes the value of community and the integral role it plays in the health of children and families. Through the facilitation of clinical-community partnerships, we incorporate community-based organizations into our provider network while also bringing Children’s medical services into neighborhoods to improve access to care and resources for children and families.

View the Clinical-Community Connections Fact Sheet (PDF).

Some of our current initiatives are highlighted below.

Community Connections for Food Security

Children’s is working to improve food security for families who visit the hospital and primary care clinics for care by asking them about food needs and providing direct referral to community partners for both emergent and sustainable food assistance. Find food resources in our community (PDF).

Children’s partners with organizations such as Just Harvest, Christopher’s Kitchen, The Food Trust, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania and other community partners to support the food needs of families both in the community and during their hospital stay.

Children’s Basic Needs Fund also helps support families with emergent food needs.

Community Connections for Clinical Services

Children’s increases access to medical care by providing quality clinical services in the community and via schools, free of charge, for children who are most in need and hardest to reach.

• Ronald McDonald Care Mobile
• Neighborhood Health Hubs in Mt. Oliver (PDF) and Homewood-Brushton
• Telemedicine Service in Schools

Community Connections for Transportation Assistance

Children’s works to forge partnerships with various community organizations to increase access to transportation for families who visit our network locations. Through our partnership with PA 2-1-1 Southwest, Children’s Hospital families who reside in Allegheny County may have access to free Lyft rides to their medical appointments at Children’s Hospital and Children’s Primary Care Centers of Oakland and Turtle Creek. A limited number of free round-trip rides are available each month and a voucher code must first be obtained. To obtain a voucher for a Lyft ride to your appointment, speak with your child’s care team.

Community Connections for Asthma Management

Children who visit the hospital for asthma care are provided with community-based resources and referrals to help them better manage their condition and prevent future emergency visits. Look here for asthma resources in our community including Breathe PA, Family Care Connection, and more.