Megan Martinelli

Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services

Jacob's Heart exists to improve the quality of life for children with cancer and support their families in the challenges they face. We envision a community where every child with a life-threatening illness has a strong and supportive family able to fully participate in their care. We believe that no family should have to face childhood cancer alone. Our no cost services are designed to support each family uniquely and aim to meet the individual needs of each member. The Counseling and Case Management Program provides a complete assessment of family needs and assistance in locating resources to meet those needs. Taking special care to work with other community agencies to connect them with additional services, such as in-home medical care and transportation services. PRACTICAL SUPPORT Jacob's Heart offers financial assistance to families experiencing hardships due to the child's illness. We offer coordination and referrals for transportation, help with groceries, gas and other emergency needs. The Financial Assistance program addresses the financial stressors associated with pediatric cancer.  Direct financial assistance supports families dealing with long hospital stays and getting to and from distant hospitals with gas and/or grocery cards. Emergency financial assistance is available upon request to assist with household bills, groceries, medical prescriptions and, when necessary, funerals or memorials. "I am not contagious." Educating the community about childhood cancer. In 1999, Jacob's Heart led the initiative to declare September "Childhood Cancer Awareness Month" in the State of California. Since then Jacob's Heart has worked tirelessly to raise awareness within our communities through outreach, gold ribbons, materials, media relations, and special events.