Hello Supporter,

The Cancer Support Community has been working diligently through this global health crisis to ensure the needs of all those facing cancer are being met. We have taken swift action to adapt and increase the availability of our free, patient-focused support and navigation services as the cancer community coped with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

We’re pleased to share with you our COVID-19 Impact Index that describes what your support has made possible in the lives of cancer patients during these difficult times. Hundreds have received direct financial assistance, thousands have received expert guidance from our Helpline, which expanded to operating seven days a week, and tens of thousands have accessed updated, informative content at our Coronavirus Resources Page—all available for free through CSC. None of these examples of impact would have been possible without you. Thank you. A few highlights from the COVID-19 Impact Index appear below, and we invite you to flip through the full report to read more stories, see pictures, and more.    

Impact Index Highlights

Cancer Emergency Fund:

In March, the Cancer Support Community launched the Cancer Emergency Fund to provide economically-distressed individuals facing cancer with $250 relief grants to help cover basic expenses, such as food, rent, and utilities. To date, 400 individuals facing hardship have received financial grants. 

Patient Advocacy and Research:

In March and April, CSC conducted a study that included hundreds of patients, survivors, and caregivers to understand their struggles. It revealed that 42% are worried about food and living supplies and nearly one-third are worried about getting their medications from the pharmacy. The findings will ensure policymakers,
the media, and other influencers keep the patient’s experience at the center of the COVID-19 response. 

Strategic Partnerships: 

We’ve partnered with Airbnb to find free temporary housing for medical first responders near the medical centers where they are serving. In light of the Navajo Nation having the highest COVID-19 infection rate in the country, we established an emergency response fund to support the Tuba City Regional Health Care Center and secured many donations of food and clean water. 

"Everyone is worried about bringing this virus home, but families of cancer patients are living with that anxiety on a hyper level. 
The relief fund isn’t just a financial support, it allows me to have a little space in my mind for joy and fun. It’s a windfall that gives our family respite from worrying about bills, letting us focus on healing. "

-With deep gratitude, Ash