The following resources may be able to help your family manage the financial burden of cancer treatment:

COBRA benefits: This is a form of insurance that may be available to you if you have become unemployed within the last 90 days and had been receiving insurance from your previous employer. You must file for these benefits within the 90-day period.

Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA): If you need to take an extended leave from work to care for your child, your employer may ask you to take a family medical leave. This means that you can receive up to 12 weeks away from work and your job or an equivalent job must be available for you when you return. This is usually an unpaid absence. This may not apply to smaller businesses.

Social Security disability (SSI): If your child’s illness will require at least one year for treatment, he or she may be eligible for disability. SSI is based on income. For more information, call 800-772-1213 or visit the Social Security Web site.

NC Medicaid: This program provides health coverage for children and youth through age 20 and for parents or caretakers of children who are age 18 and younger. There are no fees or co-payments for children who receive Medicaid. Eligibility is based on family income. For more information please contact your local Department of Social Services or speak with your social worker.

National Children’s Cancer Society (NCCS): NCCS can provide some financial assistance to families in need as a result of their child’s cancer diagnosis. Please ask your social worker for further information and an application for assistance. NCCS also offers support services, advocacy, education and prevention programs. More information is available on the NCCS Web site.

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS): LLS can provide some financial assistance to families in need as a result of their children’s leukemia and lymphoma cancer diagnosis. Please ask you social worker for further information and an application for assistance. LLS also offers support services and education relating to cancer treatment and care. Find out more on the LLS Web site.

CancerCare: This organization can provide some financial assistance to families in need as a result of their child’s cancer diagnosis. Please ask your social worker for further information and an application for assistance. CancerCare also offers support services and education.

American Cancer Society: American Cancer Society (ACS) can provide some financial assistance to families in needs as a result of their child’s cancer diagnosis. Please ask your social worker for further information and an application for assistance. ACS also offers support services, advocacy, education and prevention programs.