Updated Resource Helps Families Find Child Care/Early Learning Programs – The PA Department of Human Services recently released an updated Child Care and Early Learning Program search for the COMPASS website. The user-friendly updates allow families to search for information about early learning programs and providers, get information about help paying for child care, explore the different early learning programs, locate information about quality early learning program/providers, learn about regulations, and find activities to support and information about their child developmental milestones. Search features allow for detailed information to help families find a child care/ early learning program that fits their needs. Explore the COMPASS website at www.findchildcare.pa.gov and share with families and friends.

United Way of Erie County is pleased to offer the FamilyWize Prescription Drug Discount card. The card can be used by the whole family and is for people with no insurance or for medicine not covered by insurance, Medicare or other benefit plans. The FamilyWize Prescription Discount card could lower the cost of medicine by an average of 35%. United Way of Erie County is providing these cards free-of-charge to everyone in our community. There are no age restrictions, no income restrictions, no limit on how many times you can use it and no waiting to get a card.

Get your printable FamilyWize Prescription Drug Discount Card today at www.unitedwayerie.org/familywize as well as information on how the card works and a drug price look-up link.

Pennsylvania’s CHIP program puts health coverage within reach for all uninsured kids and teens who are not eligible for or enrolled in Medical Assistance. CHIP provides quality health insurance to Pennsylvania children so that they are covered for routine checkups, prescriptions, hospitalization, dental, eye care, and more. Most children receive CHIP for free, others can get the same benefits at a low cost. To learn about health insurance for uninsured children and teens (CHIP or childrens health insurance program), program benefits and eligibility requirements call 1-877-KIDS NOW (1-877-543-7669) to talk to someone in Pennsylvania. You can also review the information at http://www.chipcoverspakids.com/eligibility-and-requirements/ 

2017 Recommended Immunizations for Children Birth Through 6 Years Old – view 2017 Immunizations for current information on recommended immunizations for children from birth through age.  Additional information on vaccinations and how they can help keep your child healthy can be found at www.cdc.gov/vaccines

Connect with services to help you and your baby! Free services for females and males under age 22 who are enrolled in a public or private school, charter school, alternative education program, cyber school, or GED program. Or those under 21 years old who want to re-enroll in school or start a GED program.

In-school Services, Community Resources, Prenatal Education, Basic Needs, Parenting Education, Life Skills Education, Academic Goals, Home-based Support, and Career Planning.

For more information: Erie City – Student Parenting Program at 814-874-6145; Outside City of Erie – IU5 ELECT Program at 814-734-8467 or Teen Parenting Program Poster

Children’s healthy development depends on safe and positive experiences during the first few years of life. The quality of child care has a direct impact on your child’s ability to learn, to build healthy relationships and become the best he or she can be. If you are a parent who works during these early years, choosing a child care program for your child is often a difficult and confusing process.

Fortunately there are resources to help you choose the child care program best suited to your family’s needs. Erie  County’s Child  Care and Information Services Agency (CCIS) can help you find a program that meets your needs. You can contact the local CCIS office at 814-451-6580 for more information.  The following informational brochures provide tips and a check list of what to look for when choosing a child care program program for your child.

A Parent Guide- Steps to Selecting a Child Care Program

A Parent’s Guide to Choosing Quality Child Care