What is the Link program?

CCA’s Link program takes the profound emotional and financial hardships of serious pediatric illness head on, engaging a network of caring people and organizations. It connects, or “links”, families to the support they need, when they need it most.

What type of support does Link provide?

The Link program provides families with essential needs assistance and support for specific, non-recurring needs. It also fulfills special requests if/when a child needs a morale boost during treatment for a serious illness, grants wishes unmet by other organizations, and provides grief and bereavement support. There are several other resources that Link provides thanks to the generosity of community supporters, such as holiday and back to school support, and assistance with home cleaning and projects.

Interesting, can you give me specific examples?

Some of the requests that Link has fulfilled in the past include: car repairs, new tires, home repairs, gas gift cards and other travel for medical treatment, groceries, medical equipment not covered by insurance, adaptive technology, mattresses, concert or event tickets, electronics, special toys, shopping sprees, music lessons, gym memberships, makeovers, getaways, wigs, and so much more.

Why is this type of support important?

CCA knows that having a child with a serious illness can mean lots of things, including costly medical bills and time away from work and home. It means long and frequent commutes to medical appointments and frequent hospitalizations. It often means financial and emotional challenges for the entire family and we know that can be overwhelming. CCA also knows that families should be able to focus on each other and taking care of their child. The Link program aims to relieve some of the burdens we know families face so they can do just that.

Who is eligible for Link support?

We can consider requests for assistance for a child/teen currently receiving medical treatment for a serious or life-threatening condition at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel, or Shriners Hospitals for Children- Portland. A determination of need and eligibility must be conducted, and all referrals must come from a medical social worker.

How do I get support for my family?

It is best to talk with your medical social worker about the challenges your family is facing to determine what community resources are available and if you are eligible for Link support.

I know a family that could benefit from Link support- how do I get them connected?

Wow, they are so lucky to have the support of a caring individual like you. Please encourage them to talk with their medical social worker about the community resources that may be available and be sure to mention CCA’s Link program. If you are a medical professional looking for support for a family you work with, please email Link@JoyRx.org.

My family is not eligible for Link support. Can you help?

CCA is proud to offer comprehensive resources and information to families facing the profound trauma of serious pediatric illness. Our Kids Cancer Pages is a national resource directory on childhood cancer and was recognized by the National Cancer Institute as “the most comprehensive guide for families currently available.”

Our Family Support Pages is a local resource directory for families and caregivers of seriously ill children in Oregon and SW Washington. Both are available online, or you can request a free hard copy.

I know of a business that might be able to help CCA families- how do I get you in touch with them?

CCA’s Link program serves families thanks to the generous support of our community. We are always looking for businesses to partner with so that we may further support families when they need it most. Please email Link@JoyRx.org if you or someone you know may be interested in partnering to further support the families we.

I would like to support the Link program- how can I do that?

You can always donate directly to the Link program. Your donation will allow us to serve families in need of Link support. You can also shop for the Link program by purchasing a frequently requested item on our Wish List or by donating gift cards to some of our most requested vendors, such as Walmart, Target, Winco, Safeway, Fred Meyer, Shell, Arco, Chevron, or Amazon.

Make a difference for families facing serious illness when you donate today.