2023 CancerCare Summary on Financial Assistance for Patients

At the heart of the Hirshberg Foundation’s mission is our commitment to provide support for pancreatic cancer patients and their families as they navigate this disease. In 1998, the Foundation established a partnership with CancerCare, a national organization providing free, professional support services to help manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. This longstanding relationship has allowed our organization to provide low-income patients with a one-time grant. Thanks to community fundraising and the generosity of our supporters, we have made a positive impact on thousands of survivors and loved ones thanks to this grant.

Each year, CancerCare provides the Hirshberg Foundation with a report on how these funds have been used to support patients and families thanks to our partnership. Below are details on the services provided.

2023 PROGRAM SUMMARY

In 2023, through the Hirshberg Foundation’s grant program with Cancer Care, nearly 150 financial assistance grants were provided to pancreatic cancer patients. This grant helps to alleviate some of the hardship that can come with a cancer diagnosis and the devastating impact it can have on a patient’s life. CancerCare was able to serve a diverse group of individuals impacted by pancreatic cancer throughout the country.

This year, the program served 67 women and 78 men with resources provided across 33 states including Florida, New Jersey, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and California. Funds to help cover the cost of transportation to and from treatment continue to be the highest need for CancerCare clients; approximately 43% of grant funds disbursed over the course of the 12-month period were allocated to transportation. Copayment charges and treatment expenses were the second most needed type of assistance, at 28% of grant funds. The remaining financial assistance grants contributed to insurance premiums, imaging tests, home care, massage/acupuncture treatments, biopsies, and childcare.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CANCERCARE GRANT

To date, the Hirshberg Foundation has provided over $1.2 million dollars for this patient program offering limited financial assistance associated with transportation to and from treatment, pain medication, childcare, home care, and beyond. Funds are provided to low-income patients for whom it has been a vital resource over the years. Patients and families can learn more about eligibility and program information today.

CancerCare also offers a wealth of other resources free of charge including support groups, educational workshops, co-payment assistance, and case management. Counseling is available in English and Spanish and centers on the emotional and practical challenges that arise from cancer.

HIRSHBERG FOUNDATION PATIENT RESOURCES

Patients and families are not alone in this journey. We are here to help guide you through the initial steps of educating yourself and your family about this disease. Learn more about programs, events, and resources offered by the Hirshberg Foundation when you watch this video and review our patient and caregiver support services .