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Frequently Asked Questions
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Legal Resources:Triage Cancer: national, nonprofit organization that provides free education on the legal and practical issues that may impact individuals diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers, through events, materials, and resources 424-258-4628 info@triagecancer.org IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free tax return preparation and tax advice for people with disabilities including cancer. These no-cost services are available nationwide to cancer patients in the USA. Volunteer Lawyers for Justice: provides free legal help for Essex County, NJ residents regarding cases of eviction, bankruptcy, debt, criminal record expungement, denial of special education services, divorce, etc. PO Box 32040, Newark, NJ 07102 (973) 645-1955 Legal Services of New Jersey: They offer various legal programs and resources for individuals who cannot afford a lawyer on their own. New Jersey has 5 regional programs providing direct services to all 21 counties. 732-572-9100 Newark Community Solutions: They apply a problem-solving approach to low-level, non-violent cases in Newark courthouses. They offer judges a range of sentencing options such as community service, group counseling, treatment and readiness classes, educational assessments and monitored community placement. 31 Green St, Newark, NJ 07102 973-733-5180
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Support Groups:Oncology Support Services at RWJ Barnabas: Most of our support groups and wellness programs are virtual with a few in person at one of our facilities across the state. All programs are free and open to all RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey patients. CancerCare: live cancer support groups in New Jersey 1 Kalisa Way Ste. 205, Paramus, NJ 07652 201‑444‑6630 or 800‑813‑HOPE (4673) njinfo@cancercare.org National Cervical Cancer Coalition – New Jersey Chapter (Montclair) Support Groups and Programs at Morristown Medical Center: Atlantic Health System Cancer Care's professionally-led support groups are a great way to get emotional comfort and advice from other individuals who are experiencing similar challenges. Crossroads4Hope A Network of Cancer Support: provides network of support programs delivered at no charge to people with cancer, survivors, loved ones, caregivers, and bereaved 908-658-5400 info@crossroads4hope.org 3 Crossroads Drive, Bedminster New Jersey, 07921 Gilda’s Club Cancer Support Community New Jersey: a nonprofit cancer support community based in Linwood, NJ 700 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221-1237 (609) 926-2699 Cancer Hope Network: Offers one-on-one peer support for cancer patients and caregivers. 2 North Rd, Suite A, Chester, NJ 07930 1-877-HOPENET
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Financial Resources:Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): a grant program for people with low incomes. It provides monthly payments to help pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, transportation, phone, medical supplies not covered by Medicaid, and other basic needs. (TANF also helps states provide training and jobs for the people in welfare programs.) Cancer and Careers: lists financial assistance resources for cancer patients Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition: lists financial assistance resources for cancer patients Family Reach: provides non-medical financial support to families facing cancer 857-233-2764 NJHELPS: They help individuals with low or no income. Families or individuals can apply for housing, income food or medical services.
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Food Services:National Hunger Hotline: national resource that connects families to food programs. 1-866-348-6479 (1-866-3-HUNGRY); for Spanish, call 1-877-842-6273 Meals on Wheels: This program is designed for people who are disabled, homebound, or elderly. Volunteers deliver ready-to-eat meals to your home. Costs or fees vary depending on your age and where you live. 888-998-6325 Magnolia Meals at Home: This meal delivery program provides meals to households affected by cancer at no cost. It is available in and around Nutley, NJ, Cambridge, MA, and New Haven, CT. Check Eligibility at https://www.magnoliamealsathome.com/eligibility NJ Food Resources by County: lists available food resources in each NJ county NJ SNAP: NJ SNAP Provides money to your household on a benefits card for food. Even college students can apply. Many food retailers accept these cards. You can apply online for these benefits. Check eligibility and apply by clicking here: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/apply/ways/ Community Improvement Association of The Oranges: programs offered are food and clothing distribution, health and wellness, workforce readiness, financial literacy, and youth services. 336 Oakwood Ave, Orange, NJ 07050 973-678-7322 Elmwood United Presbyterian Church: provides a food pantry, clothing, free community dinner and an inviting community. 135 Elmwood Ave, East Orange, NJ 07108 973-678-0055 40 Dreams Catering: deliver fresh, high-quality meals to the homes of senior citizens or disabled adults. They ensure healthy delicious meals are a human right. 973-988-5554 Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Corporation: provide assistance with hunger, utilities, and housing. 346 16th Ave, Irvington, NJ 07111 973-416-0909 Isaiah House: work to reduce homelessness, hunger, drug addiction, and unemployment. They offer many support services including life skills training, money management, job search assistance, medical referrals, tutoring and helps to reunite families. 238 North Munn Ave, East Orange, NJ 07017 973-678-5882 Holy Trinity Food Pantry: This food pantry is open Tuesdays from 9am-12pm and the fourth Monday from 9am-12pm for diaper distribution. Please check the website or call to confirm hours have not changed. 315 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052 201-341-9217 Montclair Emergency Services for The Homeless: Provides basic and essential services to homeless adults and families. They partner with community members to provide meals to people who need it. They also provide shelter during extreme weather. 15 Trinity Place, Montclair, NJ 07042 862-621-9488 New Community Corporation: They are a one-stop family resource center that serves everything including emergency food assistance. 233 West Market Street, Newark, NJ 07103 973-623-2800 St. James Social Services Corporation: This corporation offers food, diaper banks, feminine hygiene products, clothing, housing assistance, and health initiatives. 604 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102 973-624-4007 The Salvation Army- Montclair Citadel: This organization offers housing services, addiction counseling, a food pantry, religious services, youth programs, and more. 13 Trinity Place, Montclair, NJ 07042 973-744-3312 Toni’s Kitchen: They provide meals and groceries to seniors, families and homeless or near homeless individuals. They will deliver to individuals who need. 73 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042 973-932-0768 United Community Corporation Food Services: This organization offers a range of services including food, shelter, clothing, employment assistance, youth programs, and vaccinations. 933 S 18th Street, Newark, NJ 07108 973-642-0181 Unity Fellowship Church Newark: mission-centered church that partners with organizations to feed the hungry and homeless as well as support LGBTQ youth and provide information through seminars, forums, workshops, and various partnerships. They also have clothing drives to provide clothing to those who need it. 23 Branford Place, Newark, NJ 07102 973-565-9340 Tree House Cares Food Pantry: They provide lots of free groceries, hot meals, clothing, toiletries, and other essential items for communities and families. Their goal is to decrease poverty by providing basic necessities to disadvantaged populations and promote health. 462 Sanford Ave, Newark, NJ 973-393-3449
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Transportation Services:Dial-A-Ride: Free transportation program available to all senior citizens over the age of 60 and any resident with a disability or handicap. Eligible residents can schedule a ride by calling during business hours of 8:30am to 4:30pm schedule an appointment call 973-566-7194 Essex County Department of Citizen Services: Special transportation with wheelchair access for seniors and individuals 18 years or older with a disability. Must call 3-5 days in advance to schedule your appointment for a ride. 973-737-7200 NJ 2-1-1 Transportation Options in New Jersey: Transportation options in New Jersey vary greatly depending upon where you reside in our state. Urban areas offer public transportation that is simply not available to residents of rural communities. Those with special needs face accessibility challenges as well. This page offers information on transportation systems that may help. County Transportation for Special Populations: Many Counties offer transportation to special populations such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and low-income individuals at low or no cost. Oftentimes, these transportation options require riders to schedule their ride in advance. Atlantic County Bergen County Burlington County Camden County Cape May County Essex County Gloucester County Hudson County Mercer County Middlesex County Monmouth County Morris County Ocean County Passaic County Salem County Somerset County Sussex County Warren County
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Counseling & Crisis HotlinesCancer Therapists Psychology Today: lists verified cancer therapists located in New Jersey Crisis Hotlines Caring Contact Crisis Hotline: volunteer-staffed caring and crisis hotline and listening community (908) 232-2880 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: provides free and confidential support for people in distress and prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones Call or text 988 Choices, Options for Women’s Health: provides free and confidential women’s health services Call or text: (732) 516-0911 24/7 Hotline | (800) 712-HELP (4357) National Domestic Violence Hotline: provides, free, confidential, and essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788 NJ 2-1-1: informational and referral service that connects people in need of health and human services with community resources best able to meet their needs Dial 2-1-1 or 1-877-652-1148 or text your zip code to 989-211, TTY: Dial 7-1-1 first NJ AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline: 24/7 free and confidential information about AIDS, HIV and STDs Call 1-800-624-2377 or text 973-339-0712 Help also available via live chat on their website Substance Abuse and Mental Health Hotline: provides 24-hour free and confidential referrals and information about mental and/or substance use disorders, prevention, treatment, and recovery in English and Spanish 800-662-HELP (4357),TTY: 800-487-4889 Veterans Crisis Hotline: free, confidential support for veterans. You do NOT have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call. Dial 988 then press 1 or text 838255 Birthright International Pregnancy Help Hotline: Free, confidential support for people with unplanned pregnancies 1-800-550-4900 National Safe Haven Alliance Hotline: 24/7 crisis hotline; provides support and essential information to parents facing unplanned pregnancies with safe alternatives that prevent infant abandonment while providing holistic care for both parents and babies. US Safe Haven Laws allow a parent to anonymously surrender their unharmed infant to a designated Safe Haven provider within a specific time after birth. 1-888-510-BABY
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Cancer Screening Services:New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection (NJCEED): For more information on where you can get free screening services, contact your nearest NJCEED Screening Location or call 1-800-328-3838 then press 3. MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Health Care: free breast and cervical cancer screenings 856-968-7308 ScreeNJ: Learn more about screening for different cancer sites and find screening services.
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Child and Adult Care & Services:Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies: Under contract to the NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development, the Child Care Resource & Referral agencies, or CCR&Rs, administer the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) which helps income-eligible parents who are in school or working to pay for child care. Lists each resource by county. Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: SFMNP provides low-income seniors with coupons that can be exchanged for foods such as fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs. 1-866-3-HUNGRY Essex County Department of Senior Services: Programs offered are adult protective services, assisted transportation, caregiver assistance, care management, certified home health aide, emergency heating/cooling, financial counseling, health insurance counseling, home delivered meals, home modifications, nutrition sites, legal services and more. 465 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102 973-395-8365 NJ Special Child Health Services: coordinates preventative and primary care for children and youth with special health care needs from birth up until their 22nd birthday. Contacts are listed for each county. Easter Seals: The mission of the Easter Seals works to help make a profound and positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities. They provide opportunities for individuals with special needs to live, learn, work and play in their communities. 515 Valley St, Maplewood, 07040 855-215-4541 Nassan’s Place: This is a nonprofit for children with autism. They provide numerous educational, social, and recreational programs. They also provide supportive services and advocacy for children and families affected by autism. Nassan’s Place, East Orange, NJ 07019 973-424-7781 Info.nassansplace@gmail.com Programs for Parents: They offer financial assistance to help cover child care costs, referrals to other services, parent education and high quality care and education for children. 570 Broad St, 8th Floor, Newark, NJ 07102 973-297-1114 Newark Day Center: They serve senior citizens to help them remain active mentally, physically, and emotionally by providing referrals for housing, Medicare, Medicaid and other programs. 43 Hill St, Newark, NJ 07102 973-643-5710 West Orange Department of Senior Services: Offers various events such as health and education classes, art and recreation, wellness socialization, support and individual resources. 66 Main Street, Room 207, West Orange, NJ 07052 973-325-4105 City of Newark Senior Services: The Division of Senior Services encourages elderly residents to take part in activities that can enrich your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They offer transportation for community events, health education and screenings, exercise and music appreciation, excursion trips, and cultural activities. 94 William Street (1st fl.), Newark, NJ 07102 973-733-4311 Cleaning for a Reason: Provides free home cleaning for cancer patients. info@cleaningforareason.org Oncology Support Services at RWJ Barnabas: Most of our support groups and wellness programs are virtual with a few in person at one of our facilities across the state. All programs are free and open to all RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey patients. CancerCare: live cancer support groups in New Jersey 1 Kalisa Way Ste. 205, Paramus, NJ 07652 201‑444‑6630 or 800‑813‑HOPE (4673) njinfo@cancercare.org National Cervical Cancer Coalition – New Jersey Chapter (Montclair) Support Groups and Programs at Morristown Medical Center: Atlantic Health System Cancer Care's professionally-led support groups are a great way to get emotional comfort and advice from other individuals who are experiencing similar challenges. Crossroads4Hope A Network of Cancer Support: provides a network of support programs delivered at no charge to people with cancer, survivors, loved ones, caregivers, and bereaved 908-658-5400 info@crossroads4hope.org 3 Crossroads Drive, Bedminster New Jersey, 07921 Gilda’s Club Cancer Support Community New Jersey: a nonprofit cancer support community based in Linwood, NJ 700 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221-1237 (609) 926-2699 Cancer Hope Network: Offers one-on-one peer support for cancer patients and caregivers. 2 North Rd, Suite A, Chester, NJ 07930 1-877-HOPENET
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Housing Resources:Hope Lodge: Our 30+ Hope Lodge communities across the country provide a free place to stay during treatment so people with cancer can focus on getting better. 1-800-227-2345 Extended Stay America: This program offers discounted rooms for patients who have to be away from home for cancer treatment. With 760+ locations nationwide, it's possible for patients to find a comfortable, spacious suite near their treatment center. (800) 227-2345 Healthcare Hospitality Network: a group of nearly 200 non-profit organizations throughout the US that provide free or low-cost lodging to families getting medical treatment far from home 800-318-8861 Medicaid - NJ Department of Human Services: If you have Medicaid, check with your state Medicaid provider to see if it offers lodging assistance. Not all Medicaid plans cover the cost of short-term housing during cancer treatment NJ State Contacts: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/staff/info/ Eligibility: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/medicaid/ Enrollment: https://www.njhelps.gov/ Renewal: 800-701-0710 State Homeless Hotline: NJ 211 serves as the state homeless hotline and seeks to assist those experiencing homelessness by connecting them with community resources that may help them with breaking the cycle of homelessness. Dial 2-1-1 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: complete list of shelters and emergency housing, organized by county, NJ T: 202-708-1112; TTY: 202-708-1455 New Jersey Housing Resource Center: The NJHRC is a FREE, online searchable registry of affordable and accessible housing units throughout the State of New Jersey 1-877-428-8844 Public Housing Authority Information: Has lists of public, low-income, and affordable housing as well as applications for Section 8 vouchers for their respective by municipality T: 202-708-1112; TTY: 202-708-1455 Department of Community Affairs (The State of New Jersey): Offers homelessness prevention, energy assistance, neighborhood programs, Section 8, lead-safe home remediation. 101 South Broad St, Trenton, NJ 973-672-1848 or 973-672-2067 973-218-7400 Veterans Administration (VA): may be able to help veterans with travel and lodging. Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey: lists NJ housing resources and other useful information Amity Park Transitional Housing: Housing shelter for women and children. 280 Central Avenue, Orange, NJ 07050 973-672-1848 Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris Counties: Creates permanent lease-based housing for individuals with mental illness. They provide them with support and treatment so they can improve their lives. 33 South Fullerton Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042 973-509-9777 Essex County LGBT Rain Foundation: Their goal is to help young adults in the LGBTQ community by providing shelter, housing assistance, case management, education and financial assistance, counseling and more. 168 North Park Street, East Orange, NJ 07017 973-675-6780 Catholic Charities of Northern New Jersey: Provides affordable housing, emergency shelter and a range of programs such as counseling and support for youth and families, elderly programs, educational special needs programs for children, psychological and psychiatric help for mental illness, job training, high quality and affordable education for children, and adoption services. 590 North 7th Street, Newark, NJ 07107 973-596-4100 Cura Inc. Comunidad Unida Para Rehabilitación De Adictos: Provides shelter and many services to help adults and children. Also helps improve the Latino Community. 35 Lincoln Pk, Newark, NJ 07101 973-622-3570 Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Corporation: They help with hunger, utilities and housing. 346 16th Ave, Irvington, NJ 07111 973-416-0909 Montclair Neighborhood Development Corporation: Helps community members facing eviction and homelessness with resources they need. They have information on many benefits and services as well as case managers to assist with rental assistance, veterans services, senior citizen services and others. 228 Bloomfield, Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042 973-744-9094 New Community Corporation – Harmony House: Services include transitional housing to help individuals move from homelessness to permanent housing, help individuals live self-sufficient lives, life skills workshops, counseling, daycare, youth programs and many more. 233 West Market Street, Newark, NJ 07103 973-623-2800 Newark Emergency Services for Families: A homeless Drop-In Center that allows homeless guests to shower, receive meals, use the phone, wash clothes, have access to food and clothing pantry, take emergency shelter and have access to other supportive services. 982 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102 973-639-2100 Peace House: Provides temporary shelter for women are homeless or released from a substance abuse program or the justice system. They assist women in taking the steps to become self-sufficient. 257 Mt. Prospect Ave, Newark, NJ 07104 973-732-5129
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CancerCare:CancerCare provides free, professional support services for people affected by cervical cancer, as well as cervical cancer treatment information and additional resources, including financial and co-pay assistance. https://www.cancercare.org/diagnosis/cervical_cancer
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National Cervical Cancer Coalition:Provides free educational materials and support services regarding cervical health https://www.nccc-online.org/
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American Cancer Society:Cervical Cancer Overview About Cervical Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging After Cervical Cancer Treatment If You Have Cervical Cancer Search for Resources: Find resources to help manage your lives through treatment and recovery, including emotional support. Findhelp is America's leading social care network whose mission is to connect people to the help they need with dignity and ease. This program database lists free and reduced cost direct services both locally and nationally.
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National Cancer Institute:What is Cervical Cancer? Fact Sheet: HPV and Cancer Fact Sheet: Cancer Therapy Cancer Screening Overview: Learn more about recommended cancer screening tests.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:Cervical Cancer Fact Sheet: HPV Vaccine Information for Young Women HPV Overview
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National Library of Medicine:https://medlineplus.gov/hpv.html
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Other Cancer Screening Resources:Crucial Catch: Map featuring screening locations for cervical, lung, breast, colorectal and prostate cancer. Enter your zip code and/or filter by screening type to find services near you. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCDEP): Providing breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services to women who have low incomes and are uninsured or underinsured.
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Food and Drug Administration:Vaccine Information Sheet: Gardasil
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Child and Adult Care & Services:Easter Seals: The mission of the Easter Seals works to help make a profound and positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities. They provide opportunities for individuals with special needs to live, learn, work and play in their communities. 1063 McGaw Avenue, Irvine 714-834-1111 PACE Education: A free Head Start and Early Head Start program serves low-income children (age: birth – 5 years) and their families. The program offers early childhood education and social services that help children get ready for success in school. Head Start also provides services to families and children who are homeless or in foster care, and to children with disabilities. Open five days a week from September through June, education sites offer full-day and part-day programs. 1055 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90017 213-353-3982 Kesem: A nonprofit organization that supports children who has a parent with a cancer diagnosis or has lost a parent to cancer. They provide children with free, fun-filled creative programs and a lasting community. 440 N Barranca Ave, Covina, 91723 253-736-3821
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Other Cancer Resources:Every Woman Counts: A program that provides free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services to California’s underserved populations 1-800-511-2300 Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program​: A program implemented by California Department of Health Care Services that provides cancer treatment benefits to eligible low-income California residents diagnosed with breast and/or cervical cancer.​ 800-824-0088 California HPV Vaccination Roundtable: A coalition of diverse stakeholders with a mission to work together to prevent HPV-associated cancers and pre-cancers by increasing the California HPV vaccination rate to 80% by 2026. The three priority areas are: engaging health systems and providers, increasing parent and community knowledge, and using and improving HPV vaccination data. California Dialogue on Cancer: The California Dialogue on Cancer (CDOC) is the cancer coalition established by California’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program in 2002 that serves as the vehicle for comprehensive cancer control in California. Their mission is to reduce cancer suffering and mortality in California through risk reduction, early detection, better treatment, and enhanced survivorship. 1631 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, 95816 916-731-2528
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Food Services:211 LA Food Finder: An online mapping tool that allows LA County residents to easily find food resources from 211 LA's database. Resources include senior food needs, meals, groceries/food pantries, food benefit programs, and child/youth nutrition. Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: A nonprofit that distributes food and other essentials to children, seniors, families and other individuals in need. The Food Bank source, acquires, and distributes food throughout Los Angeles County through partnered agencies and programs. 1734 East 41st Street, Los Angeles, 90058 323-234-3030 CalFresh Program: The CalFresh Program (formerly known as Food Stamps) helps low-income households increase their food-buying power to meet their household’s nutritional needs. CalFresh benefits issued through Electronic Benefit Transfer, also known as EBT card, can be used in grocery stores and participating Farmers Markets. Homeless, elderly or disabled persons may purchase prepared meals from participating restaurants with their EBT card. 866-613-3777 GetCalFresh: An online application tool to assist individuals applying for the CalFresh Program.
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Legal Resources:Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles: Free, high-quality legal services to people living in poverty across Greater Los Angeles. They provide direct representation, offer counsel and advice, provide referrals, and educate the communicate about their legal rights through workshops and seminars. (800) 399-4529 for English and Spanish support; Additional phone lines in other languages available on website Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California: One of the nation’s largest legal and civil rights organizations for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Free and/or low cost legal advice, litigation, and in some cases representation. Services are open to all, regardless of ethnicity. 1145 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90017 213-977-7500 FAME Legal Clinic: Services to thousands of low-income residents in the greater Los Angeles area on a non-discriminatory basis. Since opening their doors in 1993, their mission is to improve public confidence in the legal system by delivering free legal services, referrals to government agencies, mediation services and referrals to other fee and non-fee legal service providers. 1968 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, 90018 323-735-1251 Public Counsel: Nonprofit public interest law firm dedicated to advancing civil rights and racial and economic justice, as well as to amplifying the power of our clients through comprehensive legal advocacy. 610 South Ardmore Avenue Los Angeles, 90005 213-385-2977
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Housing Resources:PACE Handyworker Program: The PACE Handyworker Program provides FREE repairs and property improvements to low-income seniors and disabled individuals to address health, safety, and security issues in and around their home. 1055 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90017 213-353-3982 LA Family Housing: A non-profit Homeless Services agency that connects families with minors and single adults experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness to services such as Temporary Shelter, Financial Assistance for rent/rental arrears, and Housing Focused Case Management. 7843 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, 91605 818-255-2766 Stay Housed LA: A partnership between Los Angeles County, the City of Los Angeles and local community and legal service providers. The program provides the residents of Los Angeles County, from Lancaster to Long Beach, with information and resources to keep people in their homes. 888-694-0040
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Financial Resources:Maravilla Foundation: This program provides financial assistance to low-income households in Los Angeles County. The services they offer are utility assistance, water bill assistance, no-cost weatherization, lead paint removal, and appliance replacement and repair. 323-721-4162 PACE Energy: PACE Energy provides outreach, energy and environmental conservation education, weatherization services, and utility bill assistance to low income individuals and families throughout the greater Los Angeles area. 1055 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90017 213-353-3982 United Way of Greater Los Angeles: A community funded organization that administers services for non-profit organizations in Los Angeles County. In partnership with Southern California Edison and SoCalGas®, the organization can provide one-time assistance to households across the Southland who are struggling to pay their utilities bills. 213-808-6220 Lazarex Cancer Foundation: A nonprofit organization that provides assistance with costs for FDA clinical trial participation, identification of clinical trial options, community outreach and engagement. 877-866-9523
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Transportation Services:Low Income Fare Is Easy (LIFE) Program: Designed to assist Los Angeles County Low-Income riders with the cost of public transportation. At initial sign-up qualifying riders can receive a free 90-day pass and 20 free regional rides each month on Metro or a discounted pass on any of the 13 LIFE participating transit agencies. 323-870-8575 American Cancer Society Road To Recovery®: A program by American Cancer Society that eases the burden of cancer patients by giving free rides to cancer-related medical appointments. Trained volunteer drivers will pick up individuals, take them to their appointment, and drop them off at home. 800-227-2345
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Counseling Resources:Imerman Angels: A national nonprofit organization that provides free, one-on-one cancer support and personalized mentoring for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers. 866-463-7626 Herald Cancer Association: A non-profit social service society that provides support and care for cancer patients and their family members. 715 E. Mission Road, San Gabriel, 91776 626-286-1306
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Support Groups:The Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program at USC: AYA@USC connects young adults with cancer, caregivers, family members with a robust support community that consists of healthcare providers, experts in the field, philanthropic partners and community partners through educational workshops that address important topics around AYA oncology, networking and social events. 1441 Eastlake Ave, Los Angeles, 90089 323-865-0581 Celebrate Life Cancer Ministry: A nonprofit, multicultural organization that provides caring support for cancer patients, survivors, and their caregivers through volunteers, called Care Ambassadors. They provide programs, resources, and even volunteers to escort and comfort patients during treatments. They also offer support groups, social events and financial and educational resources. 2851 W 120th St, Hawthorne, 90250 424-258-5433 Cancer Support Community Los Angeles: a nonprofit whose mission is to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities, and breaking down barriers to care. For more than 40 years, CSCLA has been providing free, no-cost psychosocial support and services to persons living with cancer – all ages, all diagnoses, and at all stages – and their loved ones. 1990 South Bundy Drive, Los Angeles, 90025 310-314-2555
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Who are my study investigators?Dr. Adana Llanos at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University Irving Medical Center by email: al4248@cumc.columbia.edu or phone: (212) 305-7358. Dr. Jennifer Tsui at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine by email: tsuijenn@usc.edu or phone: (323) 865-3744.
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Why is The ACHIEVE Study being done?We are doing this research study to learn more about the impact of social and structural inequities on cervical cancer treatment and survival outcomes. We want to learn new information about how to develop interventions, including healthcare delivery practice changes and policies to address the persistent gaps in cervical cancer survival in the United States.
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What if I have questions about my rights as a research participant, or if I have a concern about this study?Please reach out! You can contact a study team member via the Contact Us form on the webpage or by sending us an email to info@theachievestudy.org. A study team member will reach out to answer your questions or concerns.
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How will information about me be kept private or confidential?Every effort will be made to keep your personal information confidential. To ensure that your information stays private, your data will be given a code number, and separated from your name or any other information that could identify you. The research file that links your name to the code number will be kept in a password-protected database. Only the Principal Investigator and the study staff will be able to see this file. This study is overseen by Institutional Review Boards ('IRB'). An IRB is a committee organized to protect the rights and welfare of people involved in research. In addition, this study is covered by a Certificate of Confidentiality from the National Institutes of Health. This means that the researchers cannot release or use information, documents, or samples that may identify you in any action or suit unless you say it is okay.
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Are there any benefits?You may or may not receive direct personal benefits from taking part in this study. The possible benefits of taking part in this study include the potential for answering important questions about the factors that contribute to suboptimal cervical cancer treatment and poorer survival outcomes among individuals diagnosed with cervical cancer, which will be used to inform system-level practice and policy change to address the persistent inequities in cervical cancer survival.
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Are there any costs or will I be paid to be a part of this study?There will be no costs to you for being in this study. In appreciation of your time and participation, we will give you up to $125 throughout the study period. You will receive $50 for completing the baseline survey, $25 for providing HIPAA authorization to obtain medical records, and another $50 for completing the 12-month follow-up survey.
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Why were you asked to participate in this study?We are asking you to take part in this study because you were identified by the New Jersey State Cancer Registry (NJSCR) or the Los Angeles County Cancer Surveillance Program (LACSP) as a person aged 21-79 years with a date of diagnosis between 2021 and 2025.
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What if I no longer want to be part of the study after agreeing to participate?Taking part in this study is your choice. You can decide not to complete any parts of the study or withdraw any completed parts of the study at any time. Please tell one of the Researchers listed below if you decide to leave the study before it is finished.
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What does ACHIEVE stand for?ACHIEVE stands for Assessing Cervical Cancer Healthcare Inequities in Diverse Populations.
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Are there any risks?There are no major risks associated with the proposed research. Some participants may feel that the information collected during surveys is sensitive or potentially embarrassing. All participants will be informed that their answers will be kept confidential and that they may refuse to answer any question that makes them uncomfortable. A risk of taking part in this study is the possibility of a loss of confidentiality or privacy. Loss of privacy means having your personal information shared with someone who is not on the study team and was not supposed to see or know about your information. The study team will adhere to strict guidelines to keep all your information private to protect your privacy.
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What will I be asked to do if I choose to be in this study?We will ask you to complete a baseline survey. The survey includes questions about factors relevant to your cervical cancer diagnosis, including your sociodemographic information (e.g., race, ethnicity, age, educational attainment), reproductive and medical history, healthcare access and encounters with clinical providers, and your experiences after your cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will also ask you to complete a healthcare source form that will allow us to obtain medical information related to your cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment only. 12 months after enrollment and completion of the baseline survey, we will ask you to complete a follow-up survey. The follow-up survey will ask similar questions as the baseline survey but will seek to update any information that may have changed since you completed the baseline survey. This study will last approximately 5 years.
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