Support for Parents and Caregivers of Children with Complex Medical Needs and Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities in Pennsylvania.
Caring for a child with complex medical conditions and intellectual or developmental disabilities can be overwhelming.
Parents and caregivers often juggle countless appointments, medical equipment, treatments, insurance challenges, school, work, daily life and more, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being. Knowing where to begin to find the right resources can feel impossible, leading to feelings of isolation and stress. If you are managing these challenges, or know someone who is, let the LANTERN Initiative help to light the way.
The LANTERN Initiative is a pilot program designed specifically for parents and caregivers of children with both complex medical conditions (CMC) and intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) in Pennsylvania. Through compassionate and ongoing communication, trained parent volunteers provide direct peer support to help families navigate these challenges. Our volunteers bring valuable lived experience and work closely with Resource Matching Program (RMP) staff to meet each family where they are.
Our goal is to make a family’s journey less isolating and overwhelming by connecting them with helpful resources. 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.
Interested in joining LANTERN? Complete our interest form today to get started!
The LANTERN Initiative, part of the Resource Matching Program, is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust.
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.