Cancer Support Resources in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s cancer care is anchored by major academic centers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, but the rural center of the state — often called the T for its shape on a map — stretches from the Northern Tier through Centre County to the south with significant provider shortages. Communities like DuBois, Lock Haven, Towanda, and Bloomsburg exist in a wide zone where the nearest NCI-designated cancer center may require a two-hour or more drive.
Philadelphia is home to exceptional cancer institutions — Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center and Jefferson Health are among the nation’s leaders, and Fox Chase Cancer Center has long specialized in cancer care for the surrounding region. But Philadelphia also contains concentrated health disparities in neighborhoods where cancer screening rates are low, late-stage diagnoses are common, and Black residents experience significantly worse cancer outcomes than white residents across multiple cancer types. Geographic proximity to excellent hospitals does not resolve barriers related to insurance, transportation, and systemic distrust of healthcare institutions in underserved communities.
Pittsburgh’s medical corridor, anchored by UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Allegheny Health Network, provides strong cancer care for western Pennsylvania. The challenge is reaching the rural communities between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia — counties like Cameron, Sullivan, Tioga, Clarion, and Forest — where oncology specialists are scarce and the nearest comprehensive cancer center may require a significant drive in either direction.
Pennsylvania’s coal country carries a distinct occupational cancer legacy. Communities in Luzerne, Lackawanna, Schuylkill, Carbon, and Carbon counties — the anthracite coal region of northeastern Pennsylvania — have elevated rates of lung cancer and mesothelioma tied to decades of coal dust exposure and, in some areas, asbestos use in mine construction. Similar patterns exist in the bituminous coal communities of southwestern Pennsylvania. Workers and retirees from the coal and steel industries may have specific legal and financial options, including workers’ compensation and occupational disease claims, that several organizations in this directory can help navigate.
Pennsylvania has one of the larger veteran populations in the country, with VA medical centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Lebanon, Wilkes-Barre, Coatesville, and Butler. Veterans facing cancer diagnoses — particularly those connected to Agent Orange, burn pit exposure, or shipyard/industrial hazards — may qualify for VA oncology benefits and programs. The Philadelphia VA and Pittsburgh VA health systems both offer oncology services.
Pennsylvania is also home to five NCI-designated cancer centers — more than most states — which means clinical trial access and subspecialty oncology are more geographically distributed here than in many comparable states. Patient navigation programs help connect patients in underserved areas with these resources. The listings below are organized starting with statewide programs, then by region across the Commonwealth.
Filter by resource type or search by name, city, or keyword. New to a diagnosis? Start with Pennsylvania 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1) — navigators can connect you with local support in multiple languages.
Showing all 105 resources
Statewide Resources
PA Breast Cancer Coalition
📍 Harrisburg, PA (serves statewide)
The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition is the leading statewide advocacy organization dedicated to finding a cure for breast cancer. They provide education, support programs, and financial assistance to breast cancer patients across all 67 counties. Their Friends Are Good Medicine peer support program connects newly diagnosed patients with trained survivors.
- Financial assistance grants for treatment costs
- Peer-to-peer survivor mentoring program
- Legislative advocacy for patient access
- Free educational materials and conferences
Who: Breast cancer patients and survivors throughout Pennsylvania
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Living Beyond Breast Cancer
📍 Bala Cynwyd, PA (national reach, PA-headquartered)
Founded in 1991, Living Beyond Breast Cancer is a nationally recognized nonprofit headquartered in suburban Philadelphia. They connect people affected by breast cancer with trusted information and a community of support. Their programs address the unique needs of those living with metastatic disease, young women, and the LGBTQ+ community.
- Helpline staffed by trained breast cancer survivors
- Conference and educational webinar series
- Guide for the newly diagnosed
- Metastatic breast cancer specific programs
Who: Anyone affected by breast cancer, with emphasis on underserved populations
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pennsylvania Cancer Control Program
📍 Harrisburg, PA (statewide)
A state-funded initiative through the Pennsylvania Department of Health that provides free cancer screening and diagnostic services to uninsured and underinsured residents. The program targets colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers and connects eligible patients with treatment through Medical Assistance programs.
- Free mammograms and Pap tests for eligible women
- Colorectal cancer screening for ages 45-75
- Case management to navigate treatment
- Connection to Medicaid for treatment coverage
Who: Uninsured/underinsured PA residents ages 45-75
Cost: Free for eligible participants
Phone: 2-1-1
American Cancer Society – Road to Recovery (PA Chapter)
📍 Statewide Pennsylvania
The Road to Recovery program provides free rides to cancer patients who need transportation to and from treatment facilities. Volunteer drivers operate throughout Pennsylvania, with particular emphasis on rural areas where patients may live far from cancer centers. Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance.
- Free rides to chemotherapy and radiation appointments
- Volunteer drivers throughout the state
- Operates Monday through Friday during business hours
Who: Cancer patients undergoing active treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
CancerCare – Pennsylvania Programs
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (telehealth/phone)
CancerCare provides free professional support services for anyone affected by cancer, including patients, caregivers, and bereaved individuals. Their licensed oncology social workers offer individual counseling, support groups, and educational workshops via phone and online platforms accessible to PA residents statewide.
- Free individual counseling with oncology social workers
- Online and telephone support groups
- Limited financial assistance for treatment-related costs
- Caregiver-specific programs and workshops
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved loved ones
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pennsylvania Health Law Project
📍 Philadelphia, PA (serves statewide)
PHLP provides free legal assistance to Pennsylvanians having trouble accessing publicly funded health coverage and services. They help cancer patients navigate Medicaid denials, insurance appeals, and access to prescription medications. Their helpline is available to patients across the Commonwealth dealing with coverage obstacles.
- Medicaid and CHIP enrollment assistance
- Insurance denial appeals
- Help accessing prescription drug coverage
- Legal representation for coverage disputes
Who: Low-income PA residents with health coverage issues
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System – Oncology
📍 Pittsburgh, PA (serves western PA veterans)
VA Pittsburgh provides comprehensive cancer care to eligible veterans including those with service-connected cancers from Agent Orange, burn pit exposure, and radiation. The facility offers medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy along with palliative care and survivorship programs.
- Full oncology treatment services for veterans
- PACT Act enrollment assistance for toxic exposure cancers
- Veteran transportation services to appointments
- Caregiver support programs
Who: Eligible veterans, especially those with service-connected conditions
Cost: Free or copay-based for eligible veterans
Phone: 2-1-1
Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center – Oncology
📍 Philadelphia, PA (serves eastern PA veterans)
Philadelphia’s VA Medical Center offers comprehensive cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment for veterans in southeastern Pennsylvania. The center partners with Penn Medicine for advanced cancer care and clinical trials. Veterans exposed to toxic substances during service may qualify for presumptive service connection under the PACT Act.
- Cancer screening and early detection programs
- Access to clinical trials through Penn partnership
- Palliative care and hospice services
- Mental health support for cancer patients
Who: Enrolled veterans in the Philadelphia VA system
Cost: Free or copay-based for eligible veterans
Phone: 2-1-1
Pennsylvania Patient Assistance Program Clearinghouse
📍 Statewide Pennsylvania
The PA Department of Human Services maintains a clearinghouse connecting residents to pharmaceutical patient assistance programs, discount drug programs, and state-funded coverage options. Cancer patients facing high medication costs can find resources for copay assistance and free medication programs here.
- Pharmaceutical manufacturer assistance programs
- PACE/PACENET prescription coverage for seniors
- Connection to Medical Assistance programs
Who: PA residents needing help with prescription drug costs
Cost: Free assistance; program eligibility varies
Phone: 2-1-1
PA 211 – Cancer Resource Navigation
📍 Statewide Pennsylvania (dial 2-1-1)
Pennsylvania’s 211 helpline connects callers with local health and human services resources, including cancer-specific support. Trained specialists help identify financial assistance, transportation, food banks, and support groups near the caller’s location. Available 24/7 by phone, text, or online search.
- 24/7 helpline for resource referrals
- Searchable online database of local services
- Multilingual support available
Who: Any PA resident seeking community resources
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Philadelphia
Penn Medicine Abramson Cancer Center – Patient & Family Services
📍 Philadelphia, PA
As an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Abramson offers an extensive array of supportive care services beyond treatment. Their Patient and Family Services team includes oncology social workers, patient navigators, and financial counselors who help patients manage the non-medical aspects of their cancer journey. Programs address emotional health, practical needs, and survivorship planning.
- Oncology social work and counseling
- Financial counseling and assistance programs
- Survivorship wellness programs
- Integrative medicine (yoga, meditation, acupuncture)
Who: Patients and families receiving care at Penn Medicine
Cost: Free for Penn Medicine patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Fox Chase Cancer Center – Support Services
📍 Philadelphia, PA
Fox Chase Cancer Center, an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and part of Temple Health, offers a robust patient support services program. Their Resource and Education Center provides a welcoming space for patients and families to access information, attend programs, and connect with support staff throughout their cancer experience.
- Support groups for specific cancer types
- Resource and Education Center library
- Art therapy and creative expression programs
- Nutrition counseling with oncology dietitians
Who: Fox Chase patients and community members
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia
📍 Philadelphia, PA
Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia provides free emotional and social support for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. Their programs include professionally facilitated support groups, educational workshops, healthy lifestyle classes, and social activities. All services are evidence-based and designed to reduce isolation and distress.
- Weekly support groups by cancer type and stage
- Caregiver-specific support programs
- Mind-body wellness classes (yoga, tai chi, meditation)
- Nutrition and cooking workshops
Who: Anyone affected by cancer in the Greater Philadelphia area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
American Cancer Society Hope Lodge – Philadelphia
📍 Philadelphia, PA
The Hope Lodge in Philadelphia provides free temporary housing for cancer patients and their caregivers who must travel away from home for treatment. Located near major cancer centers, the facility offers private rooms, shared kitchens, and a supportive community environment. This eliminates the financial burden of hotel stays during extended treatment periods.
- Free lodging during cancer treatment
- Private rooms with shared common spaces
- Full kitchen facilities
- Community support from fellow patients
Who: Cancer patients traveling 40+ miles for treatment and their caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) – Cancer Center Support
📍 Philadelphia, PA
CHOP’s Cancer Center provides comprehensive psychosocial support services for pediatric cancer patients and their families. Their team includes child life specialists, psychologists, social workers, and school liaisons who support children throughout treatment and into survivorship. Programs address developmental, emotional, and educational needs.
- Child life specialists for procedural support
- School re-entry programs and tutoring
- Sibling support groups
- Bereavement services for families
Who: Pediatric cancer patients ages 0-21 and their families
Cost: Free for CHOP patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Linda Creed Breast Cancer Foundation
📍 Philadelphia, PA
The Linda Creed Foundation provides free mammograms and breast health education to uninsured and underinsured women in the Philadelphia area. Named after the songwriter who lost her battle with breast cancer, the foundation focuses on early detection in underserved communities where screening rates remain low.
- Free mammograms for uninsured women
- Breast health education in community settings
- Patient navigation for abnormal results
- Connection to treatment resources
Who: Uninsured/underinsured women in Philadelphia area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Gilda’s Club Delaware Valley
📍 Warminster, PA (serves Philadelphia metro area)
Gilda’s Club Delaware Valley creates welcoming communities of free support for everyone living with cancer, including men, women, teens, and children, along with their families and friends. Named after comedian Gilda Radner, the program provides support groups, educational lectures, and social activities in a homelike setting.
- Support groups for patients and families
- Children and teen programs
- Educational workshops and lectures
- Social and networking events
Who: Anyone impacted by cancer in the Delaware Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
MANNA (Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance)
📍 Philadelphia, PA
MANNA provides medically tailored meals and nutrition counseling to people battling life-threatening illnesses including cancer. Their registered dietitians design meals specific to each client’s diagnosis and treatment side effects. Volunteers prepare and deliver fresh meals directly to clients’ homes throughout the Philadelphia area and surrounding counties.
- Home-delivered medically tailored meals
- Nutrition counseling with registered dietitians
- Meals designed for treatment side effects
- Serves Philadelphia and surrounding counties
Who: Individuals with serious illnesses including cancer in the Philadelphia area
Cost: Free (referral from healthcare provider required)
Phone: 2-1-1
Philadelphia Legal Assistance – Health Rights
📍 Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Legal Assistance provides free civil legal services to low-income Philadelphia residents, including those dealing with cancer-related legal needs. Their health unit helps patients with insurance denials, disability applications, medical debt issues, and employment discrimination related to their cancer diagnosis.
- Insurance denial appeals and coverage disputes
- Social Security disability application assistance
- Medical debt defense
- Employment rights protection
Who: Low-income Philadelphia residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stupid Cancer (formerly I’m Too Young For This)
📍 Philadelphia, PA (national org, PA-based)
Stupid Cancer is a Philadelphia-based national advocacy organization for adolescents and young adults (AYA) affected by cancer. They address the unique challenges faced by people diagnosed between ages 15 and 39, including fertility preservation, career disruption, dating, and identity issues that older cancer support programs may not address.
- Online community and peer support for young adults
- Annual CancerCon conference
- Podcast and digital content
- Advocacy for AYA cancer research funding
Who: Adolescents and young adults ages 15-39 affected by cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital – Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Support Services
📍 Philadelphia, PA
Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson provides comprehensive cancer support services including social work, financial counseling, genetic counseling, and integrative medicine. Their survivorship program offers long-term follow-up care and wellness programs for patients who have completed active treatment.
- Oncology social work and patient navigation
- Financial assistance and insurance navigation
- Integrative oncology services
- Survivorship care planning
Who: Jefferson cancer patients and their families
Cost: Free for Jefferson patients; some integrative services may have fees
Phone: 2-1-1
Man Up to Cancer – Philadelphia Chapter
📍 Philadelphia, PA
Man Up to Cancer hosts a Philly-area Howling Place meetup group that provides a space for men facing cancer to connect. The program combats the isolation many men feel during a cancer diagnosis by creating outdoor gatherings and peer support opportunities that feel less clinical than traditional support groups.
- Monthly outdoor peer support gatherings
- Online community for men with cancer
- Caregiver dad support network
Who: Men diagnosed with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation
📍 Wilmington, DE (serves Philadelphia region/PA)
The B+ Foundation provides financial and emotional support to families of children with cancer throughout the Delaware Valley and beyond. They offer emergency financial assistance grants, college scholarships for survivors, and family support programs. Named after Andrew McDonough, whose blood type and positive attitude inspired the foundation’s name.
- Emergency financial grants to families
- College scholarships for childhood cancer survivors
- Hospital comfort items and care packages
- Family events and community building
Who: Families of children diagnosed with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pittsburgh
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center – Patient Support Services
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is western Pennsylvania’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, with over 60 locations across the region. Their Patient and Family Support Services program provides comprehensive assistance including social work, financial counseling, patient navigation, and wellness programs. They also operate the largest network of community cancer centers in western PA, bringing services closer to rural patients.
- Oncology social work and counseling
- Financial assistance and charity care programs
- Patient navigation services
- Survivorship and wellness programs
- Palliative care and supportive oncology
Who: UPMC cancer patients throughout western Pennsylvania
Cost: Free for UPMC patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Caring Center
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
The Cancer Caring Center has provided free emotional support to cancer patients, their families, and the bereaved in the Pittsburgh region since 1988. They offer a wide range of support groups, educational programs, and wellness activities at multiple locations. Their Caring Connection telephone support and virtual programs extend services throughout western PA.
- Support groups for patients, caregivers, and bereaved
- Educational workshops on coping and wellness
- Healthy Steps exercise and nutrition program
- Kids and teens programs for children of cancer patients
- Telephone peer support for homebound patients
Who: Anyone affected by cancer in the Pittsburgh/western PA region
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center – Family House
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
Family House provides temporary housing in a homelike setting for patients and families who must travel to Pittsburgh for medical treatment at UPMC and other area hospitals. Their three houses near major medical centers offer private rooms, shared kitchens, and a supportive community for families during some of their most difficult times.
- Affordable temporary housing near hospitals
- Three locations in Pittsburgh’s Oakland medical corridor
- Full kitchen and laundry facilities
- Support from staff and fellow guests
Who: Patients and families traveling to Pittsburgh for medical care
Cost: Suggested donation of $25-40/night; no one turned away for inability to pay
Phone: 2-1-1
Mario Lemieux Foundation – Austin’s Playrooms
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
The Mario Lemieux Foundation, founded by the Pittsburgh Penguins legend and cancer survivor, funds Austin’s Playrooms in hospitals throughout western PA. These specially designed spaces give pediatric patients a place to play, learn, and be kids during treatment. The foundation also funds cancer research at Pittsburgh institutions.
- Hospital playrooms for pediatric patients
- Gaming and entertainment systems for young patients
- Funding for pediatric cancer research
- Community outreach and awareness events
Who: Pediatric cancer patients in Pittsburgh-area hospitals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Gilda’s Club Western Pennsylvania
📍 Warrendale, PA (serves Pittsburgh region)
Gilda’s Club Western Pennsylvania offers free support programming for anyone touched by cancer, regardless of where they receive treatment. Their clubhouse provides a warm, home-like environment where people affected by cancer join others for support groups, educational lectures, and wellness activities.
- Weekly support groups for patients and families
- Noogieland program for children ages 5-17
- Mind-body wellness workshops
- Bereavement support
Who: Cancer patients, families, and friends in western PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pittsburgh Foundation – Emergency Cancer Fund
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
The Pittsburgh Foundation manages several donor-advised funds that provide emergency financial assistance to cancer patients in Allegheny County and surrounding areas. Grants can cover rent, utilities, transportation to treatment, and other immediate needs that arise during cancer treatment.
- Emergency grants for living expenses
- Utility payment assistance
- Transportation cost coverage
Who: Cancer patients in Allegheny County and surrounding areas
Cost: Free (application required)
Phone: 2-1-1
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank – Cancer Patient Services
📍 Pittsburgh, PA (serves 11-county region)
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank serves 11 counties in southwestern PA through a network of nearly 500 food distribution sites. Cancer patients facing food insecurity can access fresh produce, pantry staples, and nutritional supplements through partner agencies. They also operate a produce-to-people program providing free fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Network of food pantries across 11 counties
- Produce-to-People monthly fresh produce distribution
- Senior and homebound delivery programs
- SNAP application assistance
Who: Individuals and families facing food insecurity in southwestern PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute – Support Programs
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
AHN Cancer Institute provides comprehensive support services through their network of hospitals across western PA. Their survivorship program, support groups, and patient navigation services help patients and caregivers through every stage of the cancer experience. They also offer genetic counseling and high-risk screening programs.
- Patient navigation and social work services
- Cancer-specific support groups
- Survivorship wellness programs
- Caregiver support and education
Who: AHN patients and community members in western PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Western PA/West Virginia Chapter
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
The local LLS chapter provides information, support, and financial assistance for blood cancer patients in western Pennsylvania. Their First Connection program pairs patients with trained peer volunteers who have faced similar diagnoses. Co-pay assistance and travel grants help with the financial burden of treatment.
- Co-pay assistance program for blood cancer treatments
- Peer-to-peer First Connection support
- Information resource center
- Travel assistance to treatment centers
Who: Blood cancer patients and families in western PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh – Pediatric Cancer Support
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh provides comprehensive support services for pediatric oncology patients and their families. Their psychosocial team includes child life specialists, psychologists, and social workers who address the developmental and emotional needs of children undergoing cancer treatment.
- Child life specialists for coping support
- School liaison services
- Family counseling and support groups
- Adolescent and young adult transition programs
Who: Pediatric patients ages 0-21 at UPMC Children’s
Cost: Free for patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Lehigh Valley (Allentown/Bethlehem)
Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Center – Support Services
📍 Allentown, PA
LVHN Cancer Center offers comprehensive support services across their network of locations in the Lehigh Valley. Their cancer support team includes social workers, patient navigators, nutritionists, and integrative therapy providers. The center also hosts numerous support groups and educational programs open to the community.
- Oncology social work and financial counseling
- Cancer-specific support groups
- Integrative therapies (massage, Reiki, acupuncture)
- Survivorship wellness program
Who: Cancer patients in the Lehigh Valley region
Cost: Free for most services; some integrative therapies have fees
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley
📍 Allentown, PA
This affiliate of the national Cancer Support Community provides free psychosocial support to cancer patients and their loved ones in the Lehigh Valley. Programs include professionally led support groups, mind-body wellness activities, educational workshops, and social events designed to reduce the isolation of a cancer diagnosis.
- Weekly support groups for patients and caregivers
- Yoga, tai chi, and meditation classes
- Art therapy and expressive writing workshops
- Children’s programs for kids of cancer patients
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and families in the Lehigh Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
St. Luke’s University Health Network – Cancer Support Services
📍 Bethlehem, PA
St. Luke’s Cancer Center provides patient support services across their network of locations in the Lehigh Valley and Poconos region. Their program includes patient navigation, genetic counseling, survivorship care planning, and a variety of support groups and wellness programs for patients at all stages of their cancer journey.
- Patient navigation from diagnosis through survivorship
- Support groups and counseling services
- Genetic risk assessment and counseling
- Palliative care coordination
Who: St. Luke’s patients in the Lehigh Valley and Poconos
Cost: Free for St. Luke’s patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley
📍 Allentown, PA
Turning Point provides free wigs, hats, scarves, and breast prostheses to cancer patients in the Lehigh Valley who cannot afford them. Their boutique offers personalized fittings in a private, supportive environment, helping patients maintain confidence and dignity during treatment-related hair loss and body changes.
- Free wigs and head coverings
- Breast prostheses and mastectomy bras
- Private fitting sessions
- Compassionate care and support
Who: Cancer patients experiencing hair loss or mastectomy in the Lehigh Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley
📍 Nazareth, PA (serves Lehigh Valley and northeast PA)
Second Harvest provides food assistance through a network of pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in the Lehigh Valley and Carbon County. Cancer patients facing food insecurity during treatment can access emergency food boxes and regular pantry visits. Their nutrition education programs help patients make healthy food choices during recovery.
- Emergency food boxes for immediate need
- Network of 200+ partner food distribution sites
- Fresh produce distribution programs
- SNAP enrollment assistance
Who: Food-insecure individuals in Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Central PA (Harrisburg/Lancaster)
Penn State Health Cancer Institute – Support Services
📍 Hershey, PA
Penn State Cancer Institute at Hershey Medical Center is an NCI-designated cancer center providing comprehensive support services for patients across central Pennsylvania. Their multidisciplinary team offers social work, financial counseling, nutrition services, and integrative therapies. They also operate satellite locations bringing cancer support closer to rural communities.
- Oncology social work and patient navigation
- Financial counseling and charity care programs
- Cancer rehabilitation and survivorship programs
- Clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments
Who: Cancer patients throughout central PA
Cost: Free for support services; treatment costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
Harrisburg Area YMCA – Livestrong at the Y
📍 Harrisburg, PA
The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program provides free 12-week fitness programs specifically designed for cancer survivors. Certified fitness instructors work with participants to build strength, increase flexibility, and improve cardiovascular health after cancer treatment. The program addresses fatigue, a common post-treatment challenge.
- 12-week guided exercise program
- Certified cancer exercise trainers
- Small group format for peer support
- Free Y membership during the program
Who: Cancer survivors who have completed active treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
UPMC Pinnacle Cancer Center – Patient Support (Central PA)
📍 Harrisburg, PA
UPMC in Central PA provides oncology support services across multiple locations in the Harrisburg, Lancaster, and York areas. Their cancer support team offers social work services, support groups, genetic counseling, and survivorship planning. Community education programs help increase awareness of cancer prevention and early detection.
- Support groups at multiple central PA locations
- Patient navigation services
- Caregiver education and support
- Cancer rehabilitation programs
Who: Cancer patients in the central PA region
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lancaster General Health / Penn Medicine – Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute
📍 Lancaster, PA
The Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care and support services for Lancaster County and surrounding areas. Their support team offers counseling, support groups, patient navigation, and complementary therapies. The institute also serves the Plain community (Amish and Mennonite) with culturally sensitive outreach.
- Individual and group counseling
- Complementary therapies (massage, Reiki)
- Patient navigation for newly diagnosed
- Culturally sensitive outreach to Plain communities
Who: Cancer patients in Lancaster County and surrounding areas
Cost: Free for most support services
Phone: 2-1-1
rabbittransit – Medical Transportation (Central PA)
📍 York/Adams/Cumberland Counties, PA
rabbittransit provides shared-ride and medical transportation services in York, Adams, and Cumberland counties. Cancer patients who qualify through Medical Assistance or other programs can receive free or low-cost rides to treatment appointments. Their service is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas without personal transportation.
- Shared-ride transportation to medical appointments
- Medical Assistance transportation program
- Door-to-door service for eligible riders
- Advance scheduling available
Who: Residents of York, Adams, and Cumberland counties needing medical transport
Cost: Free for Medical Assistance recipients; reduced fares for others
Phone: 2-1-1
Central Pennsylvania Food Bank
📍 Harrisburg, PA (serves 27 counties)
The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank serves 27 counties across the middle of the state, operating through over 1,000 partner agencies. Cancer patients struggling to afford food during treatment can access pantries, mobile food distributions, and senior food programs. Their service area covers many rural communities with limited food access.
- Network of 1,000+ food distribution partners
- Mobile pantries reaching rural communities
- Fresh produce distributions
- SNAP and benefits enrollment assistance
Who: Food-insecure individuals in 27 central PA counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
WellSpan Health Cancer Services – Financial Assistance
📍 York, PA
WellSpan Health operates cancer centers across York, Adams, and Franklin counties, offering charity care and financial assistance programs for patients who qualify. Their financial counselors help patients navigate insurance coverage, apply for pharmaceutical assistance programs, and access WellSpan’s own financial aid to reduce out-of-pocket treatment costs.
- Charity care program for qualifying patients
- Financial counseling and billing assistance
- Connection to pharmaceutical assistance programs
- Payment plan options
Who: WellSpan cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free financial counseling; assistance based on eligibility
Phone: 2-1-1
MidPenn Legal Services
📍 Harrisburg, PA (serves 18 central PA counties)
MidPenn Legal Services provides free civil legal assistance to low-income residents of 18 central Pennsylvania counties. Their medical-legal partnership helps cancer patients with insurance denials, disability claims, advance directives, and employment protections. They also assist with housing issues that may arise during extended treatment periods.
- Health insurance and Medicaid appeals
- Social Security disability applications
- Advance directives and estate planning
- Employment discrimination protection
Who: Low-income residents of 18 central PA counties
Cost: Free for eligible individuals
Phone: 2-1-1
Scranton & Northeast PA
Geisinger Cancer Institute – Support Programs
📍 Danville, PA (serves northeast and central PA)
Geisinger Cancer Institute serves a large swath of rural and small-city Pennsylvania with comprehensive cancer care and support services. Their patient navigation program is particularly critical for rural patients who face long drives and limited local resources. Social workers help connect patients to financial assistance, transportation, and community support throughout the region.
- Patient navigation for rural cancer patients
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Support groups at multiple locations
- Telehealth support services for remote patients
Who: Cancer patients throughout Geisinger’s northeast/central PA service area
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
Northeast Regional Cancer Institute
📍 Scranton, PA
The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute is a nonprofit community-based organization dedicated to reducing the burden of cancer in northeastern Pennsylvania. They provide evidence-based cancer education, screenings, and patient support programs. Their survivorship program and support groups serve patients across Lackawanna, Luzerne, and surrounding counties.
- Cancer education and prevention programs
- Free cancer screening events
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Survivorship wellness programs
Who: Residents of northeastern PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Commonweal Cancer Help Program – Scranton Affiliate
📍 Scranton, PA
This program offers holistic support services combining evidence-based wellness approaches with emotional support for cancer patients in the greater Scranton area. Services include guided imagery, yoga for cancer, and small-group support programs. Caregivers are welcome at many of the programs designed for family well-being.
- Guided imagery and relaxation sessions
- Yoga for cancer survivors
- Small group emotional support
- Caregiver wellness workshops
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers in northeast PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
COLTS (County of Lackawanna Transit System) – Medical Transport
📍 Scranton, PA
COLTS provides shared-ride and paratransit services in Lackawanna County, offering medical transportation for patients who qualify through Medical Assistance. Cancer patients requiring regular trips to treatment can schedule advance rides. The system connects to regional transit for patients who need to reach cancer centers in other areas.
- Shared-ride medical transportation
- Medical Assistance transportation coverage
- Paratransit for mobility-impaired patients
- Advance scheduling for regular appointments
Who: Lackawanna County residents needing medical transportation
Cost: Free for MA recipients; reduced fares for seniors/disabled
Phone: 2-1-1
Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) – Cancer Patient Assistance
📍 Wilkes-Barre, PA
CEO is a community action agency serving Luzerne County that provides emergency assistance to residents in need, including cancer patients facing financial hardship. Their programs can help with utility payments, rent assistance, and connection to other resources during times of crisis caused by a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Emergency utility assistance (LIHEAP)
- Rent and housing assistance
- Case management and resource referrals
- Emergency food assistance
Who: Low-income Luzerne County residents facing hardship
Cost: Free for eligible individuals
Phone: 2-1-1
Pocono Health System – Cancer Support Group Network
📍 East Stroudsburg, PA
Lehigh Valley Health Network-Pocono operates cancer support programs in Monroe County, serving the Poconos region where access to specialized cancer support can be limited. Their support groups, patient navigation services, and community education programs help bridge the gap for patients in this growing but medically underserved area.
- Monthly cancer support group meetings
- Patient navigation assistance
- Cancer screening and education events
- Connection to Lehigh Valley network services
Who: Cancer patients in Monroe and Pike counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
North Penn Legal Services
📍 Scranton, PA (serves 9 northeast PA counties)
North Penn Legal Services offers free civil legal help to low-income residents in nine northeastern Pennsylvania counties. They can assist cancer patients with health insurance issues, disability benefits applications, consumer debt problems, and advance care planning. Their services are critical in a region where many residents lack access to affordable legal counsel.
- Health insurance and Medicaid issues
- Disability benefits applications and appeals
- Consumer debt and bankruptcy protection
- Advance directives and wills
Who: Low-income residents in 9 northeast PA counties
Cost: Free for eligible individuals
Phone: 2-1-1
Erie & Northwest PA
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center – Erie Region
📍 Erie, PA
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center’s Erie location brings comprehensive cancer care and support services to northwestern Pennsylvania. Patients access the same support resources as the Pittsburgh flagship including social work, financial counseling, and patient navigation. The center serves as a lifeline for cancer patients in the tri-state border region of PA, OH, and NY.
- Full-spectrum oncology support services
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Patient navigation programs
- Connection to UPMC clinical trials
Who: Cancer patients in Erie and surrounding counties
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
LECOM Health Cancer Center Support
📍 Erie, PA
LECOM Health provides cancer support services through their network in the Erie region, including support groups, rehabilitation services, and patient education. Their holistic approach incorporates osteopathic principles alongside conventional support services, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of cancer patients.
- Cancer support groups
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Patient education programs
- Integrative wellness approaches
Who: Cancer patients in the Erie region
Cost: Free for support groups; other services may vary
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Wellness Center of Erie
📍 Erie, PA
The Cancer Wellness Center of Erie provides free support services for cancer patients and their families in the Erie region. Their programs include support groups, wellness activities, and educational programs in a warm community setting. The center specifically addresses the isolation that cancer patients in northwestern PA may feel given the distance from major cancer centers.
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Wellness and exercise programs
- Educational lectures and workshops
- Social activities and community events
Who: Cancer patients and families in the Erie area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest PA
📍 Erie, PA (serves 11 northwest PA counties)
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania distributes food to people in need across an 11-county region. Cancer patients who cannot afford adequate nutrition during treatment can access their network of pantries, mobile markets, and senior meal programs. Their BackPack Program also helps families with children facing food insecurity.
- Food pantry network across 11 counties
- Mobile food markets in underserved areas
- Senior food boxes
- SNAP application assistance
Who: Food-insecure individuals in 11 northwest PA counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
EMTA (Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority) – Medical Rides
📍 Erie, PA
EMTA provides public transit and shared-ride services in Erie County, including medical transportation for patients covered by Medical Assistance. Their LIFT paratransit service offers door-to-door rides for people with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses, which can be essential for cancer patients during debilitating treatment periods.
- Fixed-route bus service to hospitals
- LIFT paratransit door-to-door service
- Medical Assistance transportation
- Reduced fares for seniors and disabled
Who: Erie County residents needing medical transportation
Cost: Free for MA-covered rides; reduced fares available
Phone: 2-1-1
United Way of Erie County – Cancer Patient Emergency Fund
📍 Erie, PA
United Way of Erie County coordinates community resources and manages emergency assistance funds for residents in crisis, including those dealing with a cancer diagnosis. They can connect patients to rent assistance, utility help, and other emergency needs while also serving as a central referral point for other available resources.
- Emergency financial assistance referrals
- Resource navigation and referral service
- Connection to partner agency programs
- 2-1-1 information line
Who: Erie County residents in financial crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Rural Appalachian PA
Geisinger Cancer Institute – Rural Outreach Programs
📍 Multiple locations across rural PA
Geisinger operates satellite cancer treatment and support locations across Pennsylvania’s rural Appalachian regions, bringing oncology services closer to patients in communities like Lewistown, Lock Haven, Shamokin, and Bloomsburg. Their community health workers and patient navigators help rural patients overcome transportation barriers and connect with financial resources.
- Satellite cancer treatment locations in rural areas
- Community health worker outreach
- Telehealth oncology consultations
- Transportation coordination assistance
Who: Rural cancer patients across Geisinger’s central PA service area
Cost: Free for support services; charity care available for treatment
Phone: 2-1-1
Appalachian Regional Commission – Health Resources
📍 Serves 52 PA Appalachian counties
The Appalachian Regional Commission funds health initiatives across Pennsylvania’s 52 Appalachian-designated counties. Their grants support cancer screening programs, telehealth expansion, community health worker training, and transportation projects that help rural residents access cancer care. ARC investment helps address the region’s persistent health disparities.
- Funding for cancer screening in underserved areas
- Telehealth infrastructure grants
- Community health worker programs
- Transportation improvement initiatives
Who: Residents of PA’s 52 Appalachian counties
Cost: Programs are free to participants
Phone: 2-1-1
Rural Health Clinic Transportation Programs
📍 Various rural PA locations
Pennsylvania’s network of Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics often coordinate transportation for patients needing to reach cancer treatment centers. Many operate volunteer driver programs or partner with county transit authorities to help patients living in areas without public transportation get to their chemotherapy and radiation appointments.
- Volunteer driver programs
- Coordination with county transit for medical rides
- Gas card assistance for self-transport
- Medical Assistance transportation enrollment help
Who: Rural PA residents needing cancer treatment transportation
Cost: Free or low-cost depending on program
Phone: 2-1-1
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center – Charity Care (Western Appalachian PA)
📍 Multiple western PA locations
UPMC’s extensive network of cancer centers across western Appalachian PA offers charity care programs for uninsured and underinsured patients. Financial counselors at satellite locations in communities like Johnstown, Indiana, Somerset, and Uniontown help patients access UPMC’s financial assistance, state programs, and pharmaceutical manufacturer assistance.
- UPMC charity care for qualifying patients
- Pharmaceutical patient assistance program navigation
- Medical Assistance enrollment help
- Payment plan arrangements
Who: Uninsured/underinsured cancer patients in western PA communities
Cost: Free or reduced-cost based on eligibility
Phone: 2-1-1
Highlands Health – Cancer Screening & Support (Fayette/Westmoreland)
📍 Connellsville, PA
Highlands Health is a Federally Qualified Health Center serving rural Fayette and Westmoreland counties with primary care, cancer screening, and support services. They provide affordable care on a sliding-fee scale and help connect cancer patients to specialty care, transportation, and financial assistance programs. Their community health workers provide culturally informed outreach.
- Cancer screening on sliding-fee scale
- Patient navigation to specialty care
- Community health worker outreach
- Connection to financial assistance programs
Who: Residents of Fayette and Westmoreland counties, especially uninsured/underinsured
Cost: Sliding-fee scale based on income
Phone: 2-1-1
Fayette County Community Action Agency – Food & Emergency Aid
📍 Uniontown, PA
This community action agency serves one of Pennsylvania’s most economically distressed counties with food assistance, utility help, and emergency services. Cancer patients in Fayette County often face compounded challenges of rural poverty and limited healthcare access. The agency provides a safety net of basic needs support during treatment.
- Emergency food assistance
- LIHEAP utility payment assistance
- Case management for families in crisis
- Connection to Medical Assistance programs
Who: Low-income Fayette County residents
Cost: Free for eligible individuals
Phone: 2-1-1
Evangelical Community Hospital – Cancer Center Support (Lewisburg)
📍 Lewisburg, PA
Evangelical Community Hospital’s cancer center serves the rural Susquehanna Valley with oncology treatment and support programs. Their smaller, community-based approach allows for personalized attention to patients who might otherwise travel over an hour to reach larger cancer centers. Support services include social work, patient navigation, and cancer rehabilitation.
- Oncology social work services
- Patient navigation
- Cancer rehabilitation program
- Support group meetings
Who: Cancer patients in the Susquehanna Valley region
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
Mount Nittany Health – Cancer Center Support (State College)
📍 State College, PA
Mount Nittany Health Cancer Center provides oncology care and support services in Centre County, serving the State College area and surrounding rural communities. Their cancer support team offers navigation services, support groups, and wellness programs. Patients benefit from proximity to Penn State’s research and clinical resources.
- Cancer support groups and counseling
- Patient navigation services
- Wellness and survivorship programs
- Connection to Penn State research programs
Who: Cancer patients in Centre County and surrounding areas
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program (Area Agencies on Aging)
📍 Statewide (through local Area Agencies on Aging)
Pennsylvania’s network of Area Agencies on Aging administers the National Family Caregiver Support Program, providing assistance to people caring for elderly or chronically ill family members including cancer patients. Services include respite care, counseling, support groups, and supplemental services. Each county has a local agency that coordinates these programs.
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Caregiver counseling and education
- Support groups for caregivers
- Supplemental services (home modifications, emergency supplies)
Who: Family caregivers of individuals ages 60+ or any age with dementia
Cost: Free or sliding-fee scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Caregiver Action Network – PA Resources
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (online/phone)
Caregiver Action Network provides education, peer support, and resources for family caregivers across the country, with programs accessible to PA residents. Their helpline offers one-on-one consultations with caregiver specialists, and their online community connects caregivers of cancer patients with others in similar situations.
- Caregiver helpline (1-855-227-3640)
- Online peer support community
- Caregiver education webinars
- Self-care resources and burnout prevention
Who: Family caregivers of cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation – Copay Assistance
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
The HealthWell Foundation offers copay assistance programs for insured patients who cannot afford their out-of-pocket costs for cancer medications. They maintain disease-specific funds for various cancer types and can help PA patients reduce their financial burden for expensive treatments like targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
- Copay assistance for cancer medications
- Disease-specific funds for various cancers
- Premium assistance for some programs
- Travel and treatment-related cost assistance
Who: Insured patients who meet income guidelines
Cost: Free (application required; income limits apply)
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation – PA Residents
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
Patient Advocate Foundation provides case management services and financial aid to patients with chronic, life-threatening, or debilitating conditions. Their professional case managers help PA cancer patients navigate insurance issues, negotiate medical debt, and find copay assistance. The PAF Co-Pay Relief Program offers direct financial aid for medication costs.
- Professional case management for insurance issues
- Medical debt negotiation assistance
- Co-Pay Relief Program for medication costs
- Emergency financial assistance
Who: Cancer patients facing insurance and financial barriers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Look Good Feel Better – PA Programs
📍 Various PA locations (hospital partnerships)
Look Good Feel Better offers free beauty workshops at hospitals and cancer centers throughout Pennsylvania, helping cancer patients manage appearance-related side effects of treatment. Licensed cosmetologists teach participants skin care techniques, makeup application tips, and head covering styling. The program is available at numerous PA cancer treatment facilities.
- Free cosmetics kit at each workshop
- Skin care tips during treatment
- Wig styling and head covering techniques
- Virtual workshops available
Who: Women undergoing cancer treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels – One-on-One Cancer Support
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (phone/virtual)
Imerman Angels pairs anyone touched by cancer with a cancer survivor or caregiver who has been through a similar experience. PA residents are matched based on cancer type, age, gender, and other factors. This one-on-one connection provides authentic peer support that complements clinical care and group programs.
- One-on-one matching with cancer survivors
- Caregiver-to-caregiver connections
- Matching by cancer type, age, and gender
- Ongoing peer relationship support
Who: Anyone affected by any type of cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colon Cancer Coalition – Get Your Rear in Gear (PA events)
📍 Philadelphia & Pittsburgh, PA
The Colon Cancer Coalition raises awareness about colorectal cancer through community events and provides support resources for patients. Their Get Your Rear in Gear events in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh bring together patients, survivors, and supporters while raising funds for screening programs. They also connect patients to local support resources.
- Community awareness and fundraising events
- Patient and survivor networking
- Connection to local colorectal cancer resources
- Screening advocacy and education
Who: Colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and supporters
Cost: Free to participate in most programs
Phone: 2-1-1
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
📍 Bala Cynwyd, PA (national headquarters)
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, headquartered in suburban Philadelphia, funds childhood cancer research and provides support to families of children with cancer. Founded by Alexandra Scott during her own cancer treatment, the organization has raised over $250 million. Their Travel for Care program helps PA families get to treatment and their SuperSibs! initiative supports siblings.
- Travel assistance for families seeking treatment
- SuperSibs! support for brothers and sisters
- Funding for pediatric cancer research
- Connection to clinical trials and treatment centers
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Camp Can Do
📍 Grantville, PA (near Hershey)
Camp Can Do provides medically supervised residential camp experiences for children ages 8-17 who have or have had cancer. Held at a facility in central Pennsylvania with on-site medical staff, campers participate in traditional camp activities adapted for their abilities. The camp creates a space where children with cancer can be kids and connect with peers who understand their experiences.
- Week-long summer camp sessions
- On-site medical supervision
- Traditional camp activities (swimming, crafts, archery)
- Year-round reunion events
Who: Children ages 8-17 who have or have had cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
SAMFund for Young Adult Cancer Survivors
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
The SAMFund provides financial support to young adults recovering from cancer through grants and scholarships. Recognizing that cancer in one’s 20s and 30s can derail education, career, and financial stability, they help young survivors with expenses like student loans, rent, fertility preservation costs, and professional development.
- Financial assistance grants for young adult survivors
- Scholarships for continuing education
- Fertility preservation assistance
- Career development resources
Who: Young adult cancer survivors ages 17-39
Cost: Free (application required)
Phone: 2-1-1
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance – PA Support
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program with local events)
OCRA provides support and resources specifically for ovarian cancer patients, running support programs accessible to PA residents through phone, online, and in-person events. Their Woman to Woman peer mentoring program connects newly diagnosed patients with trained survivors, and their educational resources address the unique challenges of ovarian cancer treatment.
- Woman to Woman peer support program
- Online and phone support groups
- Educational webinars and resources
- Clinical trial matching assistance
Who: Ovarian cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pink Fund – Breast Cancer Financial Assistance
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
The Pink Fund provides 90-day non-medical cost-of-living grants to breast cancer patients in active treatment. Payments go directly toward bills like mortgage/rent, car payments, utilities, and health insurance premiums. This financial bridge helps PA patients focus on recovery without the added stress of losing their homes or transportation.
- 90-day bill payment assistance during treatment
- Mortgage/rent payments
- Car payment and insurance assistance
- Utility and health insurance premium help
Who: Breast cancer patients in active treatment with income loss
Cost: Free (application required)
Phone: 2-1-1
Prostate Cancer Foundation – PA Support Groups
📍 Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and other PA locations
Us TOO International and the Prostate Cancer Foundation support local prostate cancer support groups across Pennsylvania. Groups meet regularly in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and other cities, providing a space for men to discuss treatment options, side effects, and quality of life issues with others who understand their experience.
- Monthly support group meetings statewide
- Educational materials on treatment options
- Partner and spouse support resources
- Online support community
Who: Men with prostate cancer and their partners
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
LUNGevity Foundation – PA Programs
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national with local programs)
LUNGevity provides support specifically for lung cancer patients, who often face stigma regardless of their smoking history. Their LifeLine program offers one-on-one peer mentoring, and their online community connects patients with others sharing similar diagnoses. PA patients can access clinical trial matching services to find research opportunities at Pennsylvania cancer centers.
- LifeLine peer-to-peer phone support
- Online support community
- Clinical trial matching service
- Educational resources on lung cancer types
Who: Lung cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Reach Foundation
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
Family Reach provides financial assistance to families facing cancer by helping with everyday expenses that become unmanageable during treatment. Their grants cover housing, transportation, utilities, and food. They also offer financial planning services through their Financial Treatment Program, teaching families budgeting and resource management skills.
- Emergency grants for housing and utilities
- Financial Treatment Program (financial planning)
- Resource Navigator for local assistance
- Referrals to other financial programs
Who: Cancer patients and families in financial hardship
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Angel Flight East
📍 Blue Bell, PA (serves Mid-Atlantic region)
Angel Flight East coordinates free air transportation for patients who need to travel long distances for specialized cancer treatment. Volunteer pilots fly patients from rural PA communities to major cancer centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or out-of-state facilities. This service is invaluable for patients in remote Appalachian areas facing multi-hour drives to specialists.
- Free flights to cancer treatment centers
- Volunteer pilots across the Mid-Atlantic
- Ground transportation coordination
- No income requirements
Who: Patients needing long-distance travel for treatment who cannot fly commercially
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network – PA Affiliate
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania
PanCAN provides support for pancreatic cancer patients through their Patient Services team, which offers free one-on-one case management, connections to clinical trials, and information about treatment options. Their PA affiliates organize PurpleStride walks in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, building community and raising awareness for this difficult-to-treat cancer.
- Patient Services case management
- Know Your Tumor personalized medicine program
- Clinical trial finder for PA patients
- Peer-to-peer Survivor & Caregiver Network
Who: Pancreatic cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Well Spouse Association – PA Support Groups
📍 Philadelphia & Pittsburgh areas
The Well Spouse Association supports spousal caregivers through local support groups, online forums, and respite events. PA chapters in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas offer monthly meetings where spouses and partners of cancer patients can share their experiences, vent frustrations, and find understanding among others in similar situations.
- Monthly spousal caregiver support groups
- Online forum and peer connections
- Annual respite weekend retreats
- Newsletter and educational resources
Who: Spouses and partners of chronically ill or disabled individuals
Cost: Free (membership optional at $30/year)
Phone: 2-1-1
Triage Cancer – Legal & Financial Education
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (online education)
Triage Cancer provides free education on legal and practical issues facing cancer patients and caregivers. Their programs cover health insurance navigation, employment rights, disability benefits, and financial planning specific to a cancer diagnosis. PA patients can access webinars, one-page guides, and a legal resource directory.
- Educational webinars on insurance and employment
- Quick-reference fact sheets on patient rights
- Insurance navigation guidance
- Estate planning education for cancer patients
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Head and Neck Cancer Alliance – PA Resources
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania
The Head and Neck Cancer Alliance provides support for patients with cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx, and related areas. Their programs connect PA patients to peer support, address speech and swallowing rehabilitation needs, and provide guidance on navigating treatment at major head and neck cancer programs at Penn, Jefferson, and UPMC.
- Peer support connections for HNC patients
- Patient education on treatment and recovery
- Oral, head, and neck cancer screening events
- Survivorship resources and rehabilitation guides
Who: Head and neck cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Joe’s House – Lodging Near PA Cancer Centers
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (online directory)
Joe’s House is an online lodging directory that helps cancer patients and their families find affordable accommodations near treatment centers. For PA patients traveling to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Hershey for treatment, the site lists discounted hotels, hospitality homes, and other low-cost housing options near major cancer centers.
- Searchable database of affordable lodging near cancer centers
- Discounted hotel rates for cancer patients
- Hospitality house listings
- Nationwide coverage including all PA cancer centers
Who: Cancer patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Free to search; lodging costs vary (many heavily discounted)
Phone: 2-1-1
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – PA Cancer Support
📍 Statewide Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania VFW posts provide emergency financial assistance, transportation support, and community connection for veterans battling cancer. Local posts often organize meal deliveries, home visits, and fundraisers for members undergoing treatment. Their service officers can help veterans navigate VA benefits claims for service-connected cancers.
- Emergency financial grants for veterans
- VA claims assistance for service-connected cancers
- Community support and meal delivery
- Transportation to VA medical appointments
Who: Veterans and their families in Pennsylvania
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
SHARE Cancer Support – Virtual Support for PA
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (phone/virtual)
SHARE Cancer Support provides a toll-free helpline and virtual support groups for breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer patients. PA residents can access their trained peer counselors by phone, join weekly online support groups, and participate in educational webinars covering treatment options, side effect management, and survivorship topics.
- Toll-free helpline with trained peer counselors
- Weekly virtual support groups by cancer type
- Educational webinar series
- Newly diagnosed patient mentoring
Who: Breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Philabundance
📍 Philadelphia, PA (serves 9 counties in Delaware Valley)
Philabundance is the Delaware Valley’s largest hunger-relief organization, distributing food to 600+ member agencies across nine counties in southeastern PA and southern NJ. Cancer patients struggling with food costs can access their network of pantries, community kitchens, and fresh food markets. Their Fare & Square social supermarket in Chester provides affordable groceries with dignity.
- Network of 600+ food distribution partners
- Fresh For All produce markets
- Community kitchen prepared meals
- SNAP benefits application assistance
Who: Food-insecure individuals in 9 southeastern PA counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Skin Cancer Foundation – PA Screening Events
📍 Various PA locations
The Skin Cancer Foundation partners with dermatology practices across Pennsylvania to offer free skin cancer screening events, particularly during Melanoma Monday and throughout the summer months. Their destination healthy skin program brings free screenings to outdoor events and communities, helping identify skin cancers early when treatment is most effective.
- Free skin cancer screening events
- Sun safety education materials
- Connection to treatment resources
- Early detection advocacy
Who: All PA residents concerned about skin cancer
Cost: Free screenings
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national hotline)
The Cancer Legal Resource Center provides free and confidential information about cancer-related legal issues through their national telephone assistance line. PA residents can call for information on health insurance rights, employment protections, disability benefits, and government programs. They do not provide legal representation but offer education and referrals to local attorneys.
- Free legal information telephone line (866-843-2572)
- Education on employment rights during cancer
- Health insurance navigation guidance
- Referrals to local legal aid organizations
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colorectal Cancer Alliance – Blue Hope Nation PA
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance connects PA patients to their Blue Hope Nation peer support network, matching patients and caregivers with trained volunteers who have been through similar experiences. Their Helpline provides personalized assistance, and their resource directory helps patients find PA-specific financial aid, clinical trials, and support programs.
- Blue Hope Nation peer matching
- Patient and Family Support Helpline
- Financial assistance resource directory
- Screening and prevention education
Who: Colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Make-A-Wish Greater Pennsylvania & West Virginia
📍 Pittsburgh, PA (serves western and central PA)
Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes for children ages 2.5 to 18 battling critical illnesses including cancer. The Greater PA chapter serves children in western and central Pennsylvania, creating moments of hope and joy during difficult treatment journeys. Wishes are customized to each child’s dream and can include travel, meeting celebrities, or special experiences.
- Custom wish experiences for critically ill children
- Travel wishes and special experiences
- Community engagement and support
- Referrals accepted from families, medical teams, or self
Who: Children ages 2.5-18 with critical illnesses in western/central PA
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Good Days (formerly Chronic Disease Fund)
📍 Serving all of Pennsylvania (national program)
Good Days provides financial assistance for patients with chronic diseases including cancer, helping with copays, premiums, diagnostics, and travel. PA cancer patients can apply for disease-specific funds that cover out-of-pocket treatment costs. The program works with insured patients who meet income guidelines and have qualifying cancer diagnoses.
- Copay assistance for cancer treatments
- Premium assistance programs
- Diagnostic and lab test assistance
- Travel to treatment reimbursement
Who: Insured cancer patients meeting income guidelines
Cost: Free (application required)
Phone: 2-1-1
Cleaning for a Reason – PA Participating Partners
📍 Various PA locations
Cleaning for a Reason partners with residential cleaning services throughout Pennsylvania to provide free house cleaning for cancer patients in treatment. When dealing with treatment side effects like fatigue and nausea, maintaining a clean home becomes an overwhelming challenge. The program offers two free cleanings per month for up to four months.
- Free home cleaning during cancer treatment
- Two cleanings per month for four months
- Partnered cleaning services across PA
- Simple online application
Who: Cancer patients currently undergoing treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Resources in Neighboring States
Many Pennsylvania residents live near state borders and may benefit from resources in neighboring states:
- New Jersey Cancer Support Resources — Especially helpful for Philadelphia-area residents near the NJ border
- New York Cancer Support Resources — Relevant for northeast PA residents near the NY border
- Ohio Cancer Support Resources — Useful for western PA residents near the OH border (Erie, Pittsburgh area)
- Delaware Cancer Support Resources — Accessible for southeastern PA residents
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and you are feeling overwhelmed, here are three steps to begin:
- Call PA 211 (dial 2-1-1) for a live specialist who can connect you with local cancer resources in your county.
- Ask your oncology team for a referral to a social worker or patient navigator, who can assess your specific needs and connect you with financial aid, transportation, and support programs.
- Contact the Cancer Support Community (Philadelphia: 215-879-7733 | Lehigh Valley: 610-861-7555 | Pittsburgh: Cancer Caring Center 412-622-1212) for free emotional support, groups, and wellness programs open to anyone affected by cancer.
You do not need to face this alone. Every organization listed on this page is ready to help.
Additional Support Resources
Joe’s House – Pennsylvania Lodging
📍 National – serves PA
Discounted lodging near Penn Medicine, Jefferson, UPMC, and other Pennsylvania cancer centers.
- Discounted lodging search
- Near Penn Medicine/Jefferson
- Near UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
Who: Patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Discounted rates
Phone: (877) 563-7468
Air Charity Network – Pennsylvania
📍 National – serves PA
Free air transportation for Pennsylvania cancer patients who must travel for specialized treatment.
- Free flights to treatment
- Volunteer pilot network
- Long-distance coordination
Who: Patients needing air travel
Cost: Free
Phone: (877) 621-7177
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
Regional food bank serving cancer patients in Allegheny County and southwestern Pennsylvania.
- Statewide food distribution
- Mobile food pantry
- Nutrition assistance
Who: Food-insecure Pittsburgh-area residents
Cost: Free
Phone: (412) 460-3663
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
📍 Pittsburgh, PA
Regional food bank serving cancer patients in Allegheny County and southwestern Pennsylvania.
- Statewide food distribution
- Mobile food pantry
- Nutrition assistance
Who: Food-insecure Pittsburgh-area residents
Cost: Free
Phone: (412) 460-3663
Disclaimer: This resource guide is provided for informational purposes only by the Cancer Education Foundation. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The inclusion of any organization does not constitute an endorsement. Information may change over time; please verify details directly with each organization. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. Last updated: April 2026.