Altoona and Johnstown Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

Survivors in Altoona and Johnstown who experienced sexual abuse by clergy or another person connected with a religious organization may have civil legal options. Filing deadlines depend on age, facts, and current Pennsylvania law. This guide shares local support and reporting contacts, but it cannot determine whether an individual claim is timely.

Diocese of Altoona–Johnstown survivor assistance

The Diocese lists Victim/Survivor Assistance Representative Jean Johnstone at 814-944-9388. The Diocese says this program provides support and referrals to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse by clergy, religious, or church workers connected to the Diocese.

For a report of suspected abuse of a minor within the Diocese, the independent reporting hotline is 833-685-8661. A diocesan report is separate from contacting public authorities or getting advice about a civil claim.

Local survivor services

For Blair County, the Diocese lists Family Services, Inc. at 1-800-500-2849 or 814-944-3585. For Cambria and Somerset Counties, it lists Victim Services, Inc. at 1-800-755-1983 or 814-288-4691. Confirm current service availability directly with each agency.

Reporting suspected child abuse

For suspected child abuse, contact Pennsylvania ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313, available 24/7. Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.

Pennsylvania filing deadlines

42 Pa.C.S. § 5533 provides special time rules for certain civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse. Whether a rule applies depends on statutory requirements and individual facts. Speak with a Pennsylvania attorney promptly about deadlines, potential defendants, and available claims.

This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship unless both you and the firm agree to one.