The following is a collection of benefits and programs provided by governmental agencies or non-profits.
We also recomment using FindHelp.com to find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more. Programs on the network are searchable by location and service type so that finding the right resource is easy. Sophisticated filters refine search results as deep as you need, resulting in the most relevant resources for your users. All programs are vetted and regularly reviewed.
Government benefits & programs offered in Pennsylvania
PA Department of Human Services Provider Directory
This tool allows you to search licensed human services programs throughout the state and is very helpful for vetting organizations as you can view inspection reports, certifications, and more.
Special Supplemental Nutririon Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age 5 who are found to be at nutritional risk.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being.
Child Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
CHIP provides health coverage to eligible children through both Medicaid and separate CHIP programs. Children eligible for CHIP are in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid, but too low to afford private coverage. CHIP is managed by states according to federal requirements and is funded by states and the federal government.
Medicaid
Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance (MA), pays for health care services for eligible individuals. Through managed care organizations, eligible individuals receive quality physical and behavioral medical care, as well as long-term supports.
Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC)
Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs) are the hub of child care information in your area. ELRCs provide you and your family with information on quality child care and personalized child care referrals to child care providers based on your specific needs or preferences. ELRCs also administer the Child Care Works subsidized child care program.
Community Programs in the Lehigh Valley
St. Luke's Nurse-Family Partnership
Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) is a free program that aids parents by pairing each familiy with a specially trained nurse through the child's second birthday. The program is geared rowards new, young, and low-income families to enhance pregnancy outcomes, promote child health and development, and improve the family's economic self-reliance. Even if you do not qualify as an NFP client, they can direct you to similar programs in the region.
HeadStart of the Lehigh Valley
Head Start programs support children's growth from birth to age 5 through services centered around early learning and development, health, and family well-being. Head Start staff actively engage parents, recognizing family participation throughout the program as key to strong child outcomes. Head Start services are available at no cost to children ages birth to 5 in eligible families. Head Start preschool services work with children ages 3 to 5 and their families. Early Head Start services work with families that have children ages birth to 3, and many also serve expectant families. Many programs operate both Head Start preschool and Early Head Start services. Programs deliver child development services in center-based, home-based, or family child care settings. All Head Start programs continually work toward our mission for eligible children and families to receive high-quality services in safe and healthy settings that prepare children for school and life.
Greater Valley YMCA
The Greater Valley YMCA has 9 local branches, including in Easton/Phillipsburg, Bethlehem, and Allentown. Many offerchildcare options, community programming, fitness classes & personal training, sports facilities, heated swimming pools, warming stations, and more. Services and programs are available for all ages and abilities.
Parents as Teachers
Free, child development education, resources, home visits, group connections, developmental screening. Implemented by the Marvine Family and Community Center in the Bethlehem Area School District. Implemented by ELECT Family Center in the Allentown City School District.
Partners for a Healthy Baby
Free home visits, pregnancy, infancy, toddler enducation and support, breastfeeding support, etc. to residents of the city of Bethlehem and Easton.