Welcome to our neighborhood! As a union, we strive to help our colleagues settle into Pittsburgh and learn about services and resources that are available for everyone in our area. We understand what it means to be new to a city - or country - and we want you to know that you aren’t alone, and we’re here to help! A union is not just a group of workers, we’re a community that leans on one another for support.
Please explore this section to see some of the resources available to you in the Pittsburgh and surrounding area. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need additional help
Please explore this section to see some of the resources available to you in the Pittsburgh and surrounding area. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need additional help
INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY MEDICAL CARE
SQUIRREL HiLL HEALTH CENTER (SHHC)
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://www.facebook.com/SquirrelHillHealthCenter/
- http://squirrelhillhealthcenter.org/
- Squirrel Hill: 4516 Browns Hill Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15217
- Near bus stops for 52L, 53L, 61C/D, 64
- (412) 422-7442
- info@squirrelhillhealthcenter.org
- Open Monday-Thursday 9-5 and Friday 8-4 with Tuesday evenings and Sundays by appointment only.
SERVICES:
- Nominal sliding scale payment based on income/federal poverty levels.
- Services include: Dental, Medical, OB/GYN, Behavioral Health, Health Insurance Marketplace Assistance, Opioid Addiction Treatment, Low Cost Medication, and navigation to other care resources.
- Interpretation (Multilingual Staff)
- Various staff speak Spanish, Nepali, Hebrew, Arabic, and American Sign Language (ASL).
- Phone interpretation for over 60 different languages is available.
MEDICAL |
DENTAL |
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH |
PHARMACY PRESCRIPTIONS |
|
100% poverty level or below |
$15.00 |
$25.00 |
$5.00 |
Cost of prescriptions plus $3.00 |
101-125% poverty level |
$25.00 |
80% discount |
$6.00 |
Cost of prescriptions plus $4.00 |
126-150% poverty level |
$35.00 |
60% discount |
$7.00 |
Cost of prescriptions plus $5.00 |
151-175% poverty level |
$45.00 |
40% discount |
$8.00 |
Cost of prescriptions plus $6.00 |
176-200% poverty level |
$55.00 |
20% discount |
$9.00 |
Cost of prescriptions plus $7.00 |
201% poverty level or above |
Full charges |
Full charges |
Full charges |
Full charges |
There may be additional charges for some dental services, which are not covered or are considered elective.
How the Sliding Scale Works*
Below is a chart that shows some common charges a patient may experience at SHHC. Based on the discount level approved, this chart shows how much the patient would pay for the service.
Type of visit |
Full Price |
Nominal Fee |
80% Discount |
60% Discount |
40% Discount |
20% Discount |
Ineligible or fail to complete |
New patient limited office visit 99203 |
$231.00 |
$15.00 |
$25.00 |
$35.00 |
$45.00 |
$55.00 |
$231.00 |
Established patient limited office visit 99213 |
$173.00 |
$15.00 |
$15.00 |
$30.00 |
$45.00 |
$60.00 |
$173.00 |
45-50 Therapy Session 59425 |
$120.00 |
$5.00 |
$6.00 |
$7.00 |
$8.00 |
$9.00 |
$120.00 |
Prenatal Visit 59425 |
$209.00 |
$15.00 |
$25.00 |
$35.00 |
$45.00 |
$55.00 |
$209.00 |
Comprehensive Oral Exam with Complete X-ray D0150 & D0210 |
$201.00 |
$25.00 |
$40.20 |
$80.40 |
$120.60 |
$160.80 |
$201.00 |
MIDWIFE CENTER
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- Midwifecenter.org
- 2831 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Near many bus stops; can take 61A/D, 71B/C/D and transfer to the 87, or can walk to stop for the 82 and transfer to the 86, or walk to a stop for the 93 and transfer to the 88.
- (412) 321-6880
- info@midwifecenter.org
SERVICES:
- Services include: OB/GYN, prenatal, childbirth, behavioral health and wellness care.
- Provides free condoms, morning after pills, and contraception.
- Can help apply for assistance and insurance.
- Walk-in hours on Fridays.
- Spanish-speaking representative first Friday of every month.
- Accepts most private/public options, meaning OB/GYN care can be given for free or on sliding scale based on family/ individual income.
PLANNED PARENTHOOD
CONTACT:
● https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-western-pennsylvania
● All locations have a call-line for foreign language interpretation.
Abortion Services
SERVICES:
● https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-western-pennsylvania
● All locations have a call-line for foreign language interpretation.
Abortion Services
- 933 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Near many bus stops; can take 61A/B/C/D, 71A/B/C/D from campus
- (412) 562-1900
- Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8-4:30, and Saturday from 7:30-3:30.
- 933 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Near many bus stops; can take 61A/B/C/D, 71A/B/C/D from campus.
- (412) 434-8971
- Tuesday from 8:30-2:30, Wednesday from 8:30-3:00. Thursday and Saturday from 8:30-2:45 and Friday from 8:30-2:45
- 533 Washington Pike Suite 203 Bridgeville, PA 15017
- Can take the 61A, 71A/B, 81 and then transfer to the G31 from campus.
- (412) 257-9880
- Monday, Tuesday 9:30-4:30, Thursday 11:30-6:30, Saturday from 8:30-3:30 (walk-ins Monday, Tuesday from 9:30-3:00, Thursday 11:30-5 pm, and Saturday 8:30-2:00).
- 935 Beaver Grade Road Suite 12, Moon Township, PA 15108
- Can take the 61D, 71A/D, or 81 and then transfer to the G3 from campus.
- (412) 264-7205
- Wednesday from 10:30-5:30 and Friday 8:00 am-2:30 pm (walk-ins from 10:30-4 and 8-1 on Wednesday and Friday respectively).
SERVICES:
- Appointment times and waits may vary by location.
- 80% of clients are received at free or reduced cost.
- Services include: gynecological care, birth control information, pregnancy testing/counseling, colposcopy and cryotherapy, pelvic and breast exams, screening and treatment for STIs, emergency contraception, options counseling services, medical and surgical abortion, professional counseling.
- Depending on your income level, these services may be free or at a reduced price.
- All branches will accept walk-ins for emergency contraception.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY FAMILY centers
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://familycenters.alleghenycounty.us/
- The organization has centers all over the Pittsburgh area, including centers that serve 26 Pittsburgh neighborhoods, including: Oakland, the Hill District, Lawrenceville, Etna, Bloomfield, Garfield, East Liberty, Homestead and many more locations. For a full list and map, visit: https://familycenters.alleghenycounty.us/locations/
- Latino Family Center within the Allegheny County Family Support Network
- https://www.latinocommunitycenter.org/latinofamilycenter
- 5450 Second Ave. 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15207 (open Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm with some extended hours; call for more information)
- Rosamaria Ponciano: (412)-325-8111
- https://www.latinocommunitycenter.org/latinofamilycenter
SERVICES:
- Main services include: Health and Well-being, Positive Parenting and Child Development, Keeping Children Safe at Home, Economic Self-Sufficiency.
- Services are free or available without regard to income.
ADAGIO HEALTH
CONTACT;
SERVICES:
- https://www.adagiohealth.org/resources
- info@adagiohealth.com
- (800) 215-7494
- 603 Stanwix Street, Two Gateway Center Suite 500, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Can take the 61A/B/C/D, 71A/B/C/D, or 83 from campus. This location is near a bus stops that the following buses also make stops at: 29, 31, 81, 82, 83, G2, G3, G31, P7, P17, P69, P76.
- Location is about 2 blocks away from the Gateway Station (a station for the Pittsburgh subway system, called “the T” by most residents). You can take the Red line, or the Blue lines to this station.
- Other clinic locations can be found at: https://www.adagiohealth.org/locations
SERVICES:
- Either administers medical services or coordinates health-related services with other agencies for those in need.
- Services include: Care for Teens, Family Planning, Gynecological, Pregnancy Care, Cancer Screening, Care for Men, STI and HIV Testing/Treatment, Natural Family Planning, Opioid Program.
PERSAD CENTER
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
Persad Center is dedicated to improving the well-being of the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning) communities and the HIV/AIDS communities in Western Pennsylvania. Through a variety of outreach, prevention, counseling, advocacy, and training services, we work to resolve problems faced by the LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS communities.
- https://www.persadcenter.org/
- info@persadcenter.org
- (412)-441-9786
- 5301 Butler St., Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
SERVICES:
Persad Center is dedicated to improving the well-being of the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning) communities and the HIV/AIDS communities in Western Pennsylvania. Through a variety of outreach, prevention, counseling, advocacy, and training services, we work to resolve problems faced by the LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS communities.
HOUSING/TRANSPORTATION
understanding the rental process
- Always consider the local amenities (transportation, grocery stores, schools, activities, and neighborhood life) when looking for a space.
- Always try to make an appointment to see the place.
- Check which utilities you are paying for and their average monthly cost.
- Check for insects and rodents.
- Check if there are working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors or fire alarms; consider elevator and stair safety.
- Go over the lease agreement with the landlord.
- Check for parking availability, if you’ll have a car.
- Security Deposit
- It is money a tenant gives to a landlord when first renting a unit to guarantee their lease. This is typical for rentals.
- Intended to cover possible damages caused by tenant during term of lease. If there are no damages and you have cleaned, you should get your security deposit back within 30 days of the end of your lease.
- Review the Terms of Your Rental Agreement:
- You have right to possession of a unit from the day it begins to when it ends.
- Common utility payments include gas, heat, electricity, water, and sewage.
- Check whether you pay your landlord money for utilities or you directly pay the utility company yourself.
- If you are paying for a particular utility, you are likely also responsible for contacting the appropriate utility company to turn on the services, or to continue the services at your address.
- Check the length of notice needed before a landlord can come inspect for routine maintenance.
- Check the building maintenance requirements (shoveling snow, mowing the lawn, etc.).
- Take photographs of any damage in the unit before you move in, in order to clear yourself of responsibility for repairs.
- Contact your landlord as soon as possible in writing and via telephone if there is any physical impairment of your space.
- For more information on searching for a rental unit, reviewing and signing your lease, moving into your new rental unit, living in your rental unit, and moving out, please view the following guide: http://www.nlsa.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tenant_Guidebook_2010.pdf.
applications and websites for buses
- Websites:
- Port Authority: http://www.portauthority.org/
- Cell phone mobile apps for transportation estimates:
- Transit Tracker - Pittsburgh (includes bus, T/subway, the Incline, and Amtrak railroad, and park and ride locations) - https://transitapp.com.
- Moovit - Pittsburgh: https://moovit.com.
- Pittsburgh Transit (available in English, Spanish, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese).
common neighborhoods where graduate students live
There are many neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, and we listed some of the most common ones where Pitt grad students usually decide to live. Prices of the rentals change all the time, you should always check online for more information. Please keep in mind that we do not take any responsibility about the accuracy of the information found here:
https://www.rentjungle.com/average-rent-in-pittsburgh-rent-trends/
For further information about the buses that travel through the different Pittsburgh neighborhoods, please see PAT's System Map available at: https://www.portauthority.org/system-map/
Oakland
Squirrel Hill
Shadyside
Bloomfield
Friendship
Highland Park
Garfield
Greenfield
Regent Square
East Liberty
Lawrenceville
Southside Flats
https://www.rentjungle.com/average-rent-in-pittsburgh-rent-trends/
For further information about the buses that travel through the different Pittsburgh neighborhoods, please see PAT's System Map available at: https://www.portauthority.org/system-map/
Oakland
- Divided into North Oakland, West Oakland, Central Oakland, South Oakland.
- Central Oakland and South Oakland mostly house undergraduate students.
- Buses:
- To Pitt Campus: 61 A/B/C/D, 71A/B/C/D, P3, 54, 65, 67, 69, 75, 81, 82, 93.
- Distance to Pitt: 1-15 minute walk depending on location.
- Trash pickup on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
Squirrel Hill
- Buses:
- To Pitt Campus: 61/B/C/D, 67, 69
- Other Neighborhood Buses: 74
- 15-35 Minutes bus ride depending on your location, with North being much closer than South.
- Trash pickup on Wednesday and Friday.
Shadyside
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 71A/B/C/D 54, P3, 75
- 20-30 bus ride from Campus
- Trash pickup on Wednesday.
Bloomfield
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 54, 93. Other Neighborhood Buses: 64, 87, 88, 86, 82
- Distance to Pitt: Roughly 20 minutes by bus.
- Trash pickup on Fridays.
Friendship
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: P3, 54, 71A/C
- Other Neighborhood Buses: P16, 89, 64, P17,86,87
- 20-35-minute bus ride to campus
- Trash pickup on Wednesdays.
Highland Park
- Local Bus Routes:
- To Pitt Campus: 71B
- Other Neighborhood Buses: 87
- Trash pickup on Mondays.
Garfield
- Local Bus Routes
- Other Neighborhood Buses: 88, 89, 87, 64, 86
- To Pitt Campus: Take one of the above buses and transfer to another.
- 30-50minute bus ride
- Trash pickup on Mondays.
Greenfield
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 58, 93, 61 C/D
- Trash pickup on Fridays.
Regent Square
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 61A, 61B, 69, 67, 71C, P3
- Other Neighborhood Buses: P7, 68
- 30-40 minute bus ride from campus
- For the Pittsburgh portion, pickup is on Tuesdays.
East Liberty
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: P3, 71A Other Neighborhood Buses: 89, 88, 64, 74.
- 25-40 minute bus ride from campus
- Trash pickup on Mondays.
Lawrenceville
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 93, or take one of the below and transfer
- Other Neighborhood Buses: 91, 64, 88, 87
- 30-minute bus ride.
- Trash pickup on Thursdays and Fridays.
Southside Flats
- Local Bus Routes
- To Pitt Campus: 81, 83, 54, 75
- Other Neighborhood Buses: 48, 51, 53, 43, 51L20-30 minute bus ride to campus
- Trash pickup on Thursdays.
finding housing
Here are some links to sources you can use to start your research in finding housing in Pittsburgh:
University of Pittsburgh Apartments & Sublets |
http://www.ocl.pitt.edu/apartments-search |
Zillow |
|
ROOM8, a matching app, utilizes social media to connect based on mutual connections, budget, location, lifestyle and interests. |
|
Craigslist Ads |
|
Facebook Groups (Requesting access is required but you will be accepted) |
|
RENTAL AGENCIES
Note: Leases near Pitt usually begin either May 1, August 1, or January 1. Always ask around and read reviews online before signing a lease with any rental agency, and be mindful of lease dates and expectations.
Forbes Management
Forbes Management
- http://forbesmanagement.net/
- (412) 441-1211
- info@forbesmanagement.org
- Offers rental spaces from studios to four-bedrooms.
- Own locations in Shadyside, Friendship, Oakland, Polish Hill, Bloomfield, Highland Park, Morningside, Squirrel Hill, and Point Breeze.
- https://www.unionrealestate.com/
- (412) 288-7800
- support@Unionrealestate.com
- Both urban and suburban rentals. Urban apartments are primarily located in Oakland and Shadyside.
- https://www.rpmpittsburgh.com/
- Contact on site: https://www.rpmpittsburgh.com/contact-us
- Detailed room search function on website.
- https://mozartrents.com
- (412) 682-7000
- info@mozartrents.com
- Offers apartments in Shadyside, North Oakland, Highland Park, Squirrel Hill, and Frick Park
- Offers flexible leases
- 508 Rebecca Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15221
- Sherri Schack, (412) 371-8211
- Offers apartments in and near Regent Square
WASTE DISPOSAL
Garbage:
Yard Debris Collection:
○ Hazelwood Drop-Off Center, 40 Melanchton St., Pittsburgh, PA 15207, 412-422-6524
○ West End Drop-Off Center, 1330 Hassler St., Pittsburgh, PA 15220, 412-937-3054
Recycling:
Snow:
Collection schedules vary depending on street and zip code. To find out your collection schedule, visit https://pgh.st. Type in your street address and zip code, and the site will give you the month’s schedule for trash, recycling, and yard pickup. You can also sign up to get text or email reminders![1]
[1] Just note that standard messaging rates may apply if you agree to receive text messages or calls to your phone.
- No pickup on Holidays: New Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Day (January 21), Memorial Day (May 27), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (September 3), Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday of November), Christmas Day (December 25)
- NOTE: When Holidays occur, this schedule will be offset by a day. For example, if collection is typically on Monday, it will instead be on Tuesday.
- City will not pick up:
- TVs, computers, carpeting, marble or stone countertops’ parts, bricks, cement, glass blocks or materials, car and automobile parts, hazardous, infectious or flammable materials, explosives, construction or building materials
- Appliances: refrigerators, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, etc.
Yard Debris Collection:
- Collects leaves, (small) branches, brush, and grass.
- Must be in paper bags weighing less than 35 pounds.
- Branches should be bundled together in lengths of 5 feet or less
- Must be set out before 6 am on the day of collection.
- If these guidelines are not followed, bags will not be picked up.
- Occurs twice a year
- This year’s 2018 dates: May 19th and November 17th
- Other disposals may occur at drop-off locations, open 8 am-2 pm
○ Hazelwood Drop-Off Center, 40 Melanchton St., Pittsburgh, PA 15207, 412-422-6524
○ West End Drop-Off Center, 1330 Hassler St., Pittsburgh, PA 15220, 412-937-3054
- Types of debris that can be collected:
- leaves, grass, plants, tree trimmings, branches, shrubs, and Christmas trees.
- Types of debris that will not be collected in yard debris collection:
- plastic bags, metal/wire, stones, dirt, rocks, manure, or garbage.
Recycling:
- Accepted:
- Paper, plastics (bottles, jugs and jars #1-5 & 7, glass (bottles, jars, and jugs), aluminum/steel cans, cardboard
- Cardboard must be flattened and bundled or put in another box to be placed curbside
- All recyclables should be clean and dry. Discard all lids and caps
- All recycling must be put in a blue bin or blue plastic bag and placed curbside to be picked up biweekly, falling on the weekday that the resident’s trash is collected.
Snow:
- Snow plows are typically administered on streets when there is a time of high snowfall.
- As for sidewalks, it is usually the property owner’s responsibility to clear them.
- Check your lease to see whether you or your landlord is responsible.
Collection schedules vary depending on street and zip code. To find out your collection schedule, visit https://pgh.st. Type in your street address and zip code, and the site will give you the month’s schedule for trash, recycling, and yard pickup. You can also sign up to get text or email reminders![1]
[1] Just note that standard messaging rates may apply if you agree to receive text messages or calls to your phone.
LANGUAGE SERVICES
Are you interested in developing your English language skills? Here is some information about some Pittsburgh organizations that can provide access to learning or perfecting your English! The Carnegie Library services listed below can also provide access to learning many other languages online, too.
LITERACY PITTSBURGH
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- literacypittsburgh.org
- 411 Seventh Ave #550, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
- (412) 393-7600
- Monday-Friday: 9AM -5PM
SERVICES:
- All programs/services are free
- Programs Offered:
- English as a Second Language
- Focus on reading, writing, speaking, listening skills, workplace success, digital literacy, and day-to-day life.
- Different levels from beginner to experienced.
- Open enrollment (come as you want)
- Career Transitions
- Can meet one-on-one with transitions manager to help explore and identify the next appropriate steps.
- Family Literacy
- For both parents and children; includes adult literacy, early childhood education, parenting skills and intergenerational literacy activities.
- English as a Second Language
CARNEGIE LIBRARY SERVICES
SERVICES:
CONTACT:
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- It has a variety of audio and physical resources to enhance skills.
- Also, may attend classes and conversation skills, as well as use online resources.
- ‘Let’s Speak English’ Conversation Club and ‘Let’s Read English’ Book Club
- Professional Documents
- Offers help on writing or editing resumes or cover letters.
CONTACT:
- 19 Locations with varying hours - https://www.carnegielibrary.org/
- Allegheny
- 1230 Federal St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212
- (412) 237-1890
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5.
- Beechview
- 1910 Broadway Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15216
- (412) 563-2900
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday, Saturday, Monday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Brookline
- 708 Brookline Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA, 15226
- (412) 561-1003
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday-Saturday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Downtown
- 612 Smithfield St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 281-7141
- Monday-Thursday 8:30-6, Friday 8:30-5, Sat 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- East Liberty
- 130 S Whitfield St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15206
- (412) 363-8232
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday, Saturday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Hazelwood
- 5006 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15207
- (412) 421-2517
- T-Th 10-8, Friday, Saturday, Monday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Hill District
- 2177 Centre Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
- (412) 281-3753
- Monday-Wednesday 10-8, Thursday-Saturday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Lawrenceville
- 279 Fisk St., Pittsburgh, PA 15201
- (412) 682-3668
- Monday-Wednesday 10-8, Thursday-Saturday 10-5, Closed Sunday.
- Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
- 4724 Baum Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- (412) 687-2440
- Monday-Friday 9-5, Closed Saturday and Sunday.
- Main (Oakland)
- 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- (412) 622-3114
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday, Saturday 10-5:30, Sunday 12-5.
- South Side
- 2205 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15203
- (412) 431-0505
- Monday-Wednesday 10-8, Thursday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5
- Squirrel Hill
- 5801 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15217
- (412) 422-9650
- Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5
CHILDCARE SERVICES
ymca Child care partnerships
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- 305 Wood Street
- Can take buses 61, 71, 81 from campus.
- 1-800-392-3131 or 412-261-2273
SERVICES:
- Professional staff focusing on identifying quality early learning and helping family find the services they need.
- Can also direct parents to other daycare resources.
- Free to all Allegheny County families.
- For more information on resources available, visit their website here: https://www.ywcapgh.org/what-we-do/resource-center/
PITTSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- 341 S. Bellefield Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- Can take buses 58, 61, 67, 69, 54 from campus.
- (412) 529-HELP
- Operate five days a week for six hours a day.
SERVICES:
- Provides services for infants and children from birth to five years old.
- Will provide treatment to those identified with health or dental concerns.
- Services provided for those with visual or hearing impairments, physical impairments and social/emotional learning disabilities.
- Receive one breakfast and one lunch a day.
- May connect with extended-day programs throughout the city if additional childcare is needed
DISCLAIMER: The Pitt Grad Union (also known as the Graduate Student Organizing Committee or GSOC) takes NO responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided on this website. The information on this website is only meant to be a collection of resources and information available through online research. THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE. The Pitt Grad Union does not endorse any of the organizations, mobile phone applications, or other names entities of people mentioned within.
TAX INFORMATION
GENERAL TAX INQUIRY
- F-1 and J-1 nonresidents are exempt from FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes on wages earned from visa-permitted employment in the United States
- Most students and their dependents (in F-1/F-2 or J-1/J-2 status) who are nonresidents for tax purposes must file at least one form every year they are in the US regardless of whether or not they earned any money. It does not mean that you have to pay taxes, but you need to complete and submit the tax forms.
- Usually, in January and February, employers, and financial institutions send out tax forms in the mail. You will use these forms when you complete your tax forms.
- The most common tax forms for international students in the US
- W-2 from your employer (if any) which summarizes your earnings in a certain year and what taxes were withheld from your pay.
- 1099-INT form from your bank outlines earned interest (if any).
- 1099-DIV outlines dividend interest on investments (if any).
- 1042-S shows stipends or earnings that were excluded under a tax treaty benefit.
- NOTE: If you must file your taxes in the US, the deadline is mid-April. You have up to three (3) years to file for a refund (this is an extension of the usual amount of time for tax filers to request a refund).
- NOTE: Nonresidents cannot electronically file federal tax returns.
- NOTE: If your scholarship is from sources inside the US, the portion of your scholarship used for "non-educational expenses" is taxed at a flat rate. Individuals from countries with which the US. has negotiated tax treaties may be able to reduce the amount of tax on their scholarships. The portion of your US scholarship granted and used to pay tuition and required fees is exempt from US tax. You should receive Form 1042-S from your sponsor to report the taxable portion of your scholarship. If your scholarship is provided by an entity outside the US you will not pay taxes to the US on your scholarship. Check with your sponsor to determine if you have any US tax obligations on your scholarship.
- To see if your country has signed a tax treaty with the US, visit: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/tax-treaties
FEDERAL TAX INQUIRY
- Nonresidents should complete the following forms:
- International students including dependents who did not earn any US source income or whose “income” was bank interest on a checking or savings account usually file Form 8843.
- International students with US income source usually file 1040NR-EZ or 1040NR (for nonresident students with US income).
- International students with a US source income (stipends, fellowships, salary, investments) usually have a W-2 Form, a summary of total wages earned in the US and taxes withheld for the calendar year. Form 1042S summarizes taxable scholarships and fellowships.
- NOTE: all the tax forms that mentioned above can be downloaded from www.irs.gov
STATE TAX INQUIRY
- If you have earned income, you may have to file local and/or state income tax returns for the location(s) where you resided/worked, you can visit the Pennsylvania (PA) Department of Revenue website to learn more about your PA tax forms: www.revenue.state.pa.us
- Click on “Forms and Publications”, then “Forms for Individuals”, then “Personal Income Tax”
- You may be able to file PA tax forms online. Information about PA taxes and online filing can be found on the PA Department of Revenue’s website: https://www.revenue.pa.gov/OnlineServices/PersonalIncomeTaxe-Services/efile/Pages/default.aspx
- You can also call 888-728-2937 to order a form or listen to automated responses to common questions.
for additional tax information
- For more information, you can call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at: (412) 395-5667. Typically for tax law, attorneys are hired during “filing season” (January-April).
- Please visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website: https://www.irs.gov/.
- You can book an appointment for tax help at one of your local IRS’ office: https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-my-local-office-in-pennsylvania
filing tips (THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE)
● What documents do I need to file my taxes?
● What is Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)?
- Before you begin the filing process, be sure you have all the necessary information with you:
- Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement (from your employer)
- Form 1042-S
- Form 1099 (if applicable): The 1099 form documents miscellaneous income. For example, if you had CPT authorization to work as an independent contractor, rather than as an employee of an organization, you might receive Form 1099 instead of Form W-2 to document your earnings.
- Passport
- I-20 (F-1 status) or DS-2019 (J-1 or J-2 status)
- Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification number
- Address information (current US address and foreign address)
- US entry and exit dates for current and past visits to US
- Academic institution or host sponsor information (name, address, phone)
- Scholarship/fellowship grant letter (if any)
- A copy of last year's federal income tax return, if you filed
- All Federal tax forms are mailed to: Internal Revenue Service Center, Austin, TX 73301-0215
- State tax forms should be mailed to the address indicated on the tax form instructions for the state(s) in which you worked during the year.
- U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible nonimmigrant workers in the US are each issued a Social Security Number (SSN).
- There are several ways to apply for an SSN:
- Check with your Designated School Officials (DSO) for your eligibility
- Visit your local SSA office. You can find a SSA office location here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp
- For more information about if you need a SSN, if you can apply for a replacement card online, or other questions, please visit: https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/
● What is Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)?
- The Internal Revenue Service Center issues ITINs to foreign nationals who have federal tax reporting requirements but are not eligible for a social security number.
- There are several ways to apply for an ITIN:
- Option 1: Mail your W-7, tax return, proof of identity and foreign status documents to: Internal revenue services: Austin service center, ITIN operation, P.O. Box 149342, Austin, TX 78714-9342
- You will only file a tax return to the address above once, when you file Form W-7 to get an ITIN. In subsequent years, when you have an ITIN, you will file your Form 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ as directed in the form instructions.
- Option 2: Apply for an ITIN in-person using the services of an IRS-authorized Certified Acceptance Agent. This will prevent you from having to mail your proof of identity and foreign status documents.
- Option 3: Make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. This will also prevent you from having mail your proof of identity and foreign statues.
- Can apply for an ITIN any time during the year when there is a filing or reporting requirement. The results will usually be mailed within 7 weeks of filing.
- Option 1: Mail your W-7, tax return, proof of identity and foreign status documents to: Internal revenue services: Austin service center, ITIN operation, P.O. Box 149342, Austin, TX 78714-9342
MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCES
Response center for non-emergencies
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- Dial 311, tweet @Pgh311, or use the MyBurgh app
- If contacting outside of the city, dial 412-255-2621
- http://pittsburghpa.gov/innovation-performance/311.html
SERVICES:
- Non-emergency concerns or questions of any kind.
- 311 is not for emergencies! If you have an emergency, including if you need emergency medical help, you can call 911 and tell the dispatcher there is a medical emergency. You can check here to see examples of emergencies and non-emergencies, and if you should dial 311 or 911: http://apps.pittsburghpa.gov/trc/Residential_911-311_final.pdf (please note that the information in the .pdf repeats three times).
GREATER pittsburgh community food bank
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- Pittsburghfoodbank.org
- 1 N Linden St, Duquesne
- (412) 460-3663
SERVICES:
- Sources healthy food and distributes it. Each bank varies in their standards and requirements, and must be contacted for further inquiry.
- You must register at a distribution center to receive food.
pitt pantry (food bank)
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- Bellefield Presbyterian Church: 4001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- pantry@pitt.edu
- Summer hours: Wednesday 4-8pm or by appt
- Fall hours are still tentative but likely:
- Tuesdays 2-5 PM
- Thursdays 5-8 PM
- Fridays 2-5 PM
- Saturdays for a period of two hours between 11am-3pm
- Fall hours are still tentative but likely:
- Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm and Saturday from 11am-2pm.
SERVICES:
- Must be a University of Pittsburgh student and earn less than 150% below the poverty line ($18,090 for a household of one).
Catholic charities diocese of pittsburgh
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- 212 9th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 456-6999
- https://www.ccpgh.org/ Click the “Services” tab at the top for a full list of services available.
SERVICES:
- Serves everyone, regardless of religion or beliefs.
- Trauma care services for refugees.
- Utility Assistance (for gas or electricity); for more information and how to receive help, visit: https://www.ccpgh.org/pages/services/services_county_allegheny-utility-assistance.
- Free care to uninsured and underinsured individuals 18 years old and older.
- Call (412) 456-6911 for an appointment.
- With other questions, to find out if you are eligible for medical or dental services, or to file an application by phone, call (412) 456-6910, or go to http://freecarepgh.org/.
CASA SAN JOSE
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://casasanjose.org/services-resources/
- 2116 Broadway Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15216
- (412) 343-3111
- latinofc@aiu3.net
SERVICES:
- Work includes:
- Transportation, interpretation, advocation, legal information, service coordination, program development, cultural discussions, immigration reform education, special events, leadership training, and job-seeking trainings.
- Offers after-school programs at Beechwood Elementary, Dormont Elementary, and Brashear High School that may be open to J2/F2 dependents. Email katherine@casasanjose.org for more info.
LATINO community center CENTER
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://www.latinocommunitycenter.org/
- 5450 2nd Ave, Floor 2, Pittsburgh, PA 15207
- (412) 325-8111
SERVICES:
- Provides family support and services to Latinos and their families.
IMMIGRANT SERVICES AND CONNECTION (ISAC)
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- http://isacpittsburgh.org/
- isac@jfcspgh.org
- (412) 742-4200
- 5743 Bartlett Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
SERVICES:
- Information and referrals, service coordination to assess needs and connect clients, and bilingual navigation.
- Training courses in cultural competency, language access, resettlements, etc.
ISLAMIC CENTER OF PITTSBURGH
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- http://www.icp-pgh.org/
- (412) 682-5555
- 4100 Bigelow Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213
SERVICES:
- Serves everyone, regardless of religion or beliefs.
- Provides a food pantry the third Saturday of each month.
- Proof of ID and financial situation will allow you access to their services.
- Contact foodbank@icp-pgh.org or go to http://www.icp-pgh.org/social-services/ for more information
SQUIRREL HILL FOOD PANTRY
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://www.jfcspgh.org/services/squirrel-hill-food-pantry/
- (412) 422-7200
- 828 Hazelwood Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15217
SERVICES:
- Offers nutritious, fresh food on a scheduled basis for those who meet income requirements in the 15217 zip code.
- Provides kosher food for those who keep kosher homes outside of the 15217, zip code
- Offers additional supportive services, such as counseling and employment assistance
URBAN LEAGUE OF GREATER PITTSBURGH
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- http://ulpgh.org/
- (412) 227-4802
- 610 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
SERVICES:
- Rental and Housing Assistance (eligibility required)
- Further eligibility guidelines can be accessed here: http://ulpgh.org/programs/housing/rental-assistance/.
- Food assistance.
JUST HARVEST
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- (412) 431-8963
- www.justharvest.org
- City locations:
- 16 Terminal Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (South Side office open Monday-Friday 10am-8pm, Saturdays 9am-4pm)
- 2305 Bedford Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (Hill District office open M/W 5pm-8pm, Saturdays 9am-5pm).
SERVICES:
- Can help with getting food stamps, feeding hungry kids, filing your taxes, finding healthy food, welfare client resources, and more.
NON-PROFIT/COMMUNITY LAW
NEIGHBORHOOD LEGAL SERVICES ASSOCIATION
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- Nlsa.us
- (412) 255-6700
- 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222
SERVICES:
- Provides free ‘civil’ legal services to low income individuals and families.
- Does not directly tackle immigration issues but could assist with community issues/questions/concerns an immigrant might face.
- Free interpretation services for those with limited English.
JEWISH CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- 5743 Bartlett St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217
- (412) 521-1737
- jfcspgh.org
SERVICES:
- Serves everyone, regardless of religion or beliefs.
- Provides Counseling, Guardianship, Immigration Legal, Refugee and Immigrant Services
- Immigration Legal Services: Can provide legal assistance through attorneys/other for a free or small fee.
- Cannot help specifically with applicant paperwork.
- Based on income and sort of services needed. Sliding fee scale based on family income. Certain services are free if a grant has funded them. Consultations for all immigration types except employment based.
LEGAL FIRMS WITH REDUCED FEE/PRO-BONO SERVICES
NOTE: For most law firms, pro-bono and reduced fee consultation/representation will vary, based on background, needed assistance, income etc., so the services cannot be guaranteed. The Pitt Grad Union does not endorse any of the following entities. We are listing sources in order for you to reach them for more information.
rosario law
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- https://rosariolaw.org/
- 606 Liberty Avenue Suite 317, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222
- (412) 440-7861
- abbie@rosariolaw.org
SERVICES:
- Specializes in Immigration Law
- Will offer free consultation and depending on the situation, may offer reduced fee legal consultation.
BURKE CROMER CREMONESE LAW FIRM
CONTACT:
SERVICES:
- http://bccattorneys.com/index.php/contact
- 517 Court Place, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219
- (412) 251-8449
SERVICES:
- Specializes in Immigration Law
- Will offer consultation/representation at a reduced/pro-bono rate.
ETHNIC GROCERY STORES
Please note, COVID-19 may be impacting the businesses and services listed in the following guide.
pan-asian
Lotus Foods Pittsburgh
Many More Asian Market
WFH Oriental Market
Sweet Panda Asian Market
Young’s Oriental Grocery Store
Oriental Market
Desi Market Inc. (Asian)
Everest Grocery (Asian)
Panda Supermarket
Asian Merchandise Inc.
Asian Grocery
Asian Food Market
- 1649 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 281-3050
- https://www.facebook.com/lotusfoodpgh/
Many More Asian Market
- 3050 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
- (412) 471-0900
- https://www.facebook.com/manymoreasianmarket/
WFH Oriental Market
- 2306 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 434-6579
- https://www.facebook.com/pages/WFH-Oriental-Food-Market/141972732577745
Sweet Panda Asian Market
- 114 S 23rd St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
- (412) 488-8839
- https://www.facebook.com/sweetpandaasianmarket/
Young’s Oriental Grocery Store
- 5813 Forward Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
- (412) 422-0559
- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Youngs-Oriental-Grocery-Store/119299241454967
Oriental Market
- 4768 McKnight Rd # 2, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- (412) 548-3648
- https://www.facebook.com/Oriental-Market-203119003045558/?rf=1511909802442838
Desi Market Inc. (Asian)
- 2122 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15210
- (412) 668-0575
- https://www.facebook.com/DesiMkt
Everest Grocery (Asian)
- 1810 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15210
- (412) 944-6748
- https://www.facebook.com/Everest-grocery-287492161384833/
Panda Supermarket
- 5846 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
- (412) 230-8902
- https://www.facebook.com/PandaSupermarket2017/
Asian Merchandise Inc.
- 705 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15221
- (412) 731-8810
Asian Grocery
- 4136 Library Rd, Castle Shannon, PA 15234
- (412) 343-1623
Asian Food Market
- 4027 William Penn Hwy, Monroeville, PA 15146
- (412) 373-3133
indian
Bombay (Indian) Food Market
Pathivara Grocery Store
Subzi Mandi (Indian)
Bombay Spice and Grocery
Spice n Sabzi-Robinson
Kohli’s Indian Imports
- 4605 Centre Ave
- (412) 687-7100
- https://www.facebook.com/Bombay-FOOD-Market-281613035329230/
Pathivara Grocery Store
- 2104 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15210
- (412) 915-7584
Subzi Mandi (Indian)
- 3103 Banksville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
- (412) 563-6720
- http://mysubzimandi.com/
Bombay Spice and Grocery
- 3623 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15227
- (412) 207-8549
Spice n Sabzi-Robinson
- 1528 Park Manor Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15205
- (412) 787-0713
- http://www.spicensabzi.us/
Kohli’s Indian Imports
- 319 S Craig St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- (412) 621-1800
MIDDLE EASTERN
Salonika Imports (Mediterranean)
Labad’s Grocery (Middle Eastern)
Salim’s Middle Eastern Food
Pitaland
Salem Halal Market & Grill
- 3509 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
- (800) 794-2256
- https://www.salonika.net/index.cfm?CFID=23510856&CFTOKEN=38368802
Labad’s Grocery (Middle Eastern)
- 1727 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 261-0419
- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Labads/151924768157810
Salim’s Middle Eastern Food
- 4705 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- (412) 621-8110
- http://www.salimsfoods.com/
Pitaland
- 620 Brookline Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
- (412) 531-5040
- http://pitaland.com/
Salem Halal Market & Grill
- 2923 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
- (412) 235-7828
- http://www.salemsmarketgrill.com/
KOREAN
Seoul Mart
Sambok Korean Groceries
- 4701 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- (412) 622-7313
Sambok Korean Groceries
- 1735 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 261-9377
- https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-New-Sambok-Oriental-Foods/158236380877353
JAPANESE
Tokyo Japanese Food Store
- 5855 Ellsworth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
- (412) 661-3777 http://www.tokyostorepgh.com/en.html
EUROPEAN
Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. (Italian)
S&D Polish Deli
Donatelli’s Italian Food Center
Groceria Italiana
Nataliya European Food Market Inc.
● 4370 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
● (412) 421-2380
- 4418, 2010 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 227-1982
- http://www.pennmac.com/
S&D Polish Deli
- 2204 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- (412) 281-2906
- http://sdpolishdeli.com/sdpolishdeli/
Donatelli’s Italian Food Center
- 4711 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
- (412) 682-1406
- http://www.donatellisitalianfood.com/
Groceria Italiana
- 237 Cedarville St, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
- (412) 681-1227
- https://www.facebook.com/Groceria-Italiana-425201950921998/
Nataliya European Food Market Inc.
● 4370 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
● (412) 421-2380
NEPALI
Nepali Bazaar
Nim-Nim Nepali Bazaar
- 4040 Saw Mill Run Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15227
- (412) 885-6171
- https://www.facebook.com/nepalibazaar51/
Nim-Nim Nepali Bazaar
- 4010 Saw Mill Run Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15227
- (412) 668-2481
- http://nim-nim-llc.business.site/
LATIN AMERICAN
Linea Verde Green Market
IGA Market on Broadway (Mexican)
- 4619 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
- (412) 687-0400
- https://m.facebook.com/Linea-Verde-Green-Market-957675474275670/
IGA Market on Broadway (Mexican)
- 1616 Broadway Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
- (412) 388-5018
- http://www.marketbroadway.iga.com/
DISCLAIMER: The Pitt Grad Union (also known as the Graduate Student Organizing Committee or GSOC) takes NO responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided on this website. The information on this website is only meant to be a collection of resources and information available through online research. THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE. The Pitt Grad Union does not endorse any of the organizations, mobile phone applications, or other names entities of people mentioned within.