SUPPORTING HEALTHY FAMILIES
The Delaware County Health Department supports families as children grow. We help keep kids and families healthy and safe by connecting them to free or low-cost services, offering health education, and monitoring community health.
Have questions? Wondering if you or your family may qualify for additional programs or resources? Call us anytime 484-276-2100 or complete this form to get started.
Car Safety for Children
Proper passenger safety restraints save lives. Pennsylvania law requires the following for child passengers:
- Birth-2 Years: Must be secured in a rear-facing car seat until the child outgrows the maximum weight and height limits designated by the car seat manufacturer.
- Birth-4 Years: Must be properly restrained in an approved child safety seat anywhere in the vehicle.
- 4-8 Years: Must be restrained in an appropriate booster seat.
- 8 Years and Older: Must be in a seat belt.
Learn more about child passenger safety. Many local police departments have Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) who can help check or install your car seat for free. Appointments are usually required.
Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health coverage for uninsured children and teens in Pennsylvania who aren’t eligible for Medicaid. No matter why your children don’t have insurance, CHIP may be able to help.
Early Intervention
Every child develops at their own pace. If you’re concerned about your child’s growth, you’re not alone. The DCIU Early Intervention program offers assessments and services for children ages 3 to pre-K who qualify.
Lead PoisoningPrevention
No amount of lead is safe. Even a small speck can raise a child’s blood-lead level. Lead poisoning affects all ages, but it is especially harmful to unborn babies and children under 6 years old. Is lead lurking in your home? Learn how to keep your family safe from lead poisoning.
The following offices offer free finger-prick lead testing for eligible children:
- Advocare Pediatrics (Eddystone)
- ChesPenn (Upper Darby and Chester)
- Health Annex (Woodland Village Plaza, SW Philadelphia)
Families without a primary care provider or experiencing other barriers may be tested for lead at one of the DCHD Wellness Centers (Yeadon and Chester).
To schedule a call: 484-276-2100 (Available 24/7)
Email: DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
Poison Control
Contact Poison Control right away if you suspect a poisoning. Help is available online or by phone at 1-800-222-1222. Both options are free, expert, and confidential. Learn more about poison control resources.
Programs for Dads
Positive father involvement benefits children in many ways, including better performance in school, stronger emotional security, and fewer behavior problems. Delco offers several programs specifically for dads, including:
Violence Prevention and Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse or intimate partner violence, the Delaware County Domestic Abuse Hotline is available 24/7 at (610) 565-4590. Learn more about the Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County.
Experiencing or witnessing violence is an adverse childhood event (ACE) linked to poor health outcomes. Learn about mental health support for children. To report suspected child abuse or neglect in Pennsylvania, call ChildLine at (800) 932-0313. In an emergency, please call 911.
