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There are many assistance programs available for individuals and families living with epilepsy, and you can apply for some of these programs directly through the EAWCP. Please note, some of these programs are only available to residents of the EAWCP service area, which includes the counties of Pennsylvania shaded in dark purple.
WHAT: Respite is defined as “temporary relief for family caregivers from ongoing responsibility of caring for an individual of any age with special needs.”
WHO: Caregivers of persons with a diagnosis of epilepsy/seizure disorder, in the EAWCP service region, can apply for respite care.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: An application must be received in advance of needing respite care services. You will be matched with a qualified respite care provider servicing your area. The respite care provider will bill the EAWCP for services performed. Up to 25 hours of respite care services may be funded in a single year.
TIME FRAME: Applications are accepted throughout the year.
APPLICATION: Respite Care Application
QUESTIONS: For more information, click here or contact Jordan at 800-361-5885.
WHAT: You may be eligible for a 30-day supply of all of your epilepsy medications.
WHO: Children or adults who have epilepsy/seizures who live in the EAWCP service region.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: This is a one-time use program, so it should only be used in an emergency situation. Applicants must have a valid prescription at a pharmacy and be able to provide the pharmacy’s phone number and address. If approved, the EAWCP will pay your pharmacy directly and you will be able to pick up your medication(s). If the reason you are unable to afford your medications is an ongoing issue, you can work with our staff to identify other patient assistance programs to help in the future.
TIME FRAME: Applications are accepted throughout the year, and we will try to help you obtain your medication as quickly as possible. However, please call while you still have 3 days of medication remaining. Do not wait until you have run out of medication, as outside factors, like availability of the medication or willingness of the pharmacy to work with us, can cause a delay in the process.
APPLICATION: Call our offices to fill out an application over the phone. Applications are accepted throughout the year.
QUESTIONS: For more information, see our Emergency Medication page or contact Jordan at 800-361-5885.
WHAT: Movement monitors are devices that alert caregivers to several seconds of sustained, convulsive movement like a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. You may be eligible to receive a movement detection monitor through the EAWCP and the Emma Bursick Memorial Fund.
WHO: Qualified applicants with an uncontrolled epilepsy/seizure disorder diagnosis and/or nocturnal convulsive seizures can apply to receive a monitor.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Emfit, SmartMonitor, and SAMi Alert monitors are covered by this program. Applicants are required to research the three types of monitors and determine which is the best type for them. EAWCP staff are available to help guide you through the process.
TIME FRAME: Applications are accepted throughout the year.
APPLICATION: Emma’s Gift Movement Monitor Application
QUESTIONS: For more information, click here or contact Brooke at 800-361-5885.
WHAT: The EAWCP offers scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 towards college or a vocational program.
WHO: Current high school seniors with a diagnosis of epilepsy or seizure disorder, who live in the EAWCP service region, can apply for a scholarship.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Interested high school seniors must complete an application, including an essay. If selected, applicants must agree to attend one or more Fun Run/Walk events for a check presentation.
TIME FRAME: Applications become available mid-October. Completed applications must be received by April 7, 2025. Winners are announced in early May, with awards presented in June, July, and August.
QUESTIONS: For more information and a copy of the current application, click here or contact Jordan at 800-361-5885.
APPLICATION: EAWCP Scholarship Application
WHAT: You may be eligible for guidance and financial support to obtain a specially-trained dog that provides assistance to seizure patients, through the Oscar Project. The Oscar Project is made possible by the Michael R. Zupancic Seizure Response Dog Endowment Fund.
WHO: Older children or adults who have epilepsy/seizures, who are capable of commanding the dog independently, and who live in the EAWCP service region can apply for a service dog.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Applicants must have an epilepsy diagnosis and be currently experiencing seizures. If selected, applicants must be able to travel to Pittsburgh for two multi-day trainings, must be able to afford on-going care for the dog (food, vet bills, etc.), and must agree to return to the Pittsburgh area yearly for re-certification.
TIME FRAME: Applications are accepted throughout the year. Recipients are selected periodically based upon need, availability of funds, and availability of dogs. We place an average of three service dogs per year.
APPLICATION: Oscar Project Application.
QUESTIONS: For more information, click here or contact Jordan at 800-361-5885.