Supporting cancer research, providing financial assistance, and offering patient care are critical functions of cancer charities around the world. Whether you or a loved one is battling cancer, or you want to donate to a trustworthy organization, these charities are dedicated to making a difference in the fight against cancer.
Here’s a list of top cancer charities that focus on cancer research, patient support, and prevention.
1. American Cancer Society (ACS)
The American Cancer Society (ACS) is one of the largest and most well-known cancer charities in the U.S. It funds cancer research, provides support programs for patients and caregivers, and promotes cancer prevention and education.
- Focus areas: Cancer research, patient support, advocacy, education, prevention.
- What they offer: Cancer screenings, prevention programs, transportation to treatment, lodging during treatment, and emotional support services.
- How to access: Visit the ACS website for information on programs, research, or to donate.
Example: ACS has funded over $5 billion in cancer research and provides services like free transportation to treatment through their “Road to Recovery” program.
2. Cancer Research Institute (CRI)
The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) is focused on funding cancer immunotherapy research to harness the immune system’s power to fight cancer. CRI supports groundbreaking research to develop new, life-saving cancer treatments.
- Focus areas: Immunotherapy research, cancer treatment development.
- What they offer: Grants to scientists, immunotherapy clinical trials, and educational resources on immunotherapy.
- How to access: Learn more or donate by visiting the CRI website.
Example: CRI has been instrumental in advancing immunotherapy, leading to more effective and personalized cancer treatments.
3. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma. LLS supports patients with financial assistance, education, and advocacy programs.
- Focus areas: Blood cancer research, patient support, advocacy.
- What they offer: Financial aid, education resources, peer-to-peer support, and clinical trial information.
- How to access: Visit the LLS website for financial assistance or to donate.
Example: LLS has invested over $1.6 billion in cancer research and provides patients with financial assistance for treatments not covered by insurance.
4. Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C)
Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) raises funds to accelerate the pace of groundbreaking cancer research. SU2C collaborates with researchers across the world, bringing together the best minds to advance cancer treatments and cures.
- Focus areas: Cancer research funding, awareness, advocacy.
- What they offer: Direct funding to research teams, cancer prevention resources, and educational campaigns.
- How to access: Support their efforts or learn more at the SU2C website.
Example: SU2C has awarded over $700 million in research grants and has played a role in several FDA-approved cancer treatments.
5. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) is a leading charity focused on advancing the world’s most promising breast cancer research. BCRF funds research worldwide to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, find a cure for breast cancer.
- Focus areas: Breast cancer research, treatment development, prevention.
- What they offer: Research grants to scientists, awareness campaigns, and support for clinical trials.
- How to access: Learn more or donate through the BCRF website.
Example: BCRF dedicates 90% of its funding directly to breast cancer research, making it one of the most efficient breast cancer charities.
6. The V Foundation for Cancer Research
Founded by ESPN broadcaster Jim Valvano, the V Foundation funds cutting-edge cancer research. The foundation is committed to finding a cure for all cancers through breakthrough research and innovation.
- Focus areas: Cancer research funding, innovative treatments.
- What they offer: Grants for cancer research projects and support for early-career scientists.
- How to access: Support the cause or apply for research grants at the V Foundation website.
Example: The V Foundation has awarded over $290 million in cancer research grants, and 100% of direct donations go to cancer research programs.
7. Susan G. Komen
Susan G. Komen is one of the largest and most recognizable breast cancer charities in the world. It supports research, community health initiatives, global outreach, and public policy advocacy.
- Focus areas: Breast cancer research, patient support, advocacy, education.
- What they offer: Financial assistance for patients, education on breast cancer prevention, research grants, and advocacy for public health policies.
- How to access: Learn more, access support, or donate via the Susan G. Komen website.
Example: Susan G. Komen has invested over $2.9 billion in breast cancer research and support services, including helping patients access mammograms and treatment.
8. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is focused on treating and curing pediatric cancers. St. Jude offers free treatment to children and has made significant strides in childhood cancer research, improving survival rates.
- Focus areas: Pediatric cancer research, treatment, and care.
- What they offer: Free cancer treatment, housing for families, research funding, and clinical trials.
- How to access: Find resources or donate through the St. Jude website.
Example: St. Jude treats thousands of children for free every year, thanks to donations, and shares its research with hospitals worldwide to improve pediatric cancer treatment.
9. CancerCare
CancerCare is a national organization that provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer. They offer financial assistance, counseling, support groups, and educational workshops to cancer patients and their families.
- Focus areas: Patient support, financial assistance, counseling, education.
- What they offer: Financial aid for transportation, medical costs, counseling services, and educational resources.
- How to access: Apply for support services on the CancerCare website.
Example: CancerCare offers direct financial assistance to patients facing high treatment costs, as well as emotional support through free counseling and support groups.
10. LIVESTRONG Foundation
The LIVESTRONG Foundation provides support to cancer patients and survivors, helping them navigate the challenges of cancer treatment and recovery. LIVESTRONG focuses on improving the lives of people affected by cancer through educational resources, financial support, and wellness programs.
- Focus areas: Cancer survivorship, patient support, education.
- What they offer: Survivorship programs, guidance on treatment options, fertility preservation, financial resources, and wellness programs.
- How to access: Visit the LIVESTRONG website for resources or to donate.
Example: LIVESTRONG helps cancer survivors access the financial and emotional support needed to rebuild their lives after treatment.
Final Thoughts
These cancer charities play a critical role in advancing research, supporting patients, and offering education and advocacy. When choosing a charity to support or seeking help for cancer-related expenses, it’s important to select organizations that have a proven track record of using donations efficiently and effectively. Many of these charities have made groundbreaking advances in cancer treatment and support, and they rely on donations to continue their lifesaving work.
If you’re interested in donating or need help, be sure to explore these organizations and see how they can assist you or make an impact in the fight against cancer.