Caring for a child with medical complexity or other serious, life-limiting illnesses is overwhelming. This can be even more challenging when the child is also living with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Day to day life includes juggling appointments, treatments, medications, household responsibilities, work, and much more in order to meet the needs of the whole family often at the expense of the caregiver’s well-being. Knowing where to begin to find the right resources and finding time to search can feel impossible, leading to feelings of isolation and stress.
The LANTERN Initiative is designed to support parents and caregivers by educating and connecting families to trusted resources and while building a community of support as no one should navigate this alone. If you are managing these challenges, or know someone who is, let the LANTERN Initiative help to light the way.

Access to a variety of online resources are available to the general public right here! We encourage you to explore the variety of resources here including:

PPCC is committed to education that promotes the understanding and practice of children’s palliative and hospice care. Our learning opportunities aim to meet the educational needs of caregivers.

PPCC strives to provide comprehensive, up-to-date information on pediatric palliative care/hospice options, as well as support organizations and self-help groups in Pennsylvania and the country.
Thanks to the generosity of donors as well as strong partnerships with incredible organizations, interested Pennsylvania families are invited to become members of the LANTERN Initiative to access additional services at no cost while helping to create a community of support across the state.

*Firefly is developed and supported through partnership with Villages by Thanacare. Firefly is HIPAA-compliant and aligns with major privacy standards for sensitive data.
In partnership with

While we may not have every answer, PPCC is committed to working hard to help parents and caregivers find the support and information that’s needed.
PPCC is not a health care provider and does not give medical advice or treatment. PPCC does not endorse or recommend any listed facilities, service providers, or support groups herein. PPCC offers the list and information as a resource only. PPCC does not pre-evaluate, or consider the Medicare/Medicaid status of the providers.
The Pediatric Palliative Care Coalition is a registered 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible according to the IRS’s rules and regulations. The official registration and financial information for PPCC may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free within Pennsylvania 1-800-732-0999.