Your support is making a difference.
Every day, throughout our state, countless Mainers benefit from services funded by Maine Cancer Foundation. With 90 grants currently active to organizations throughout Maine, we're committed to expanding our impact even further. This year, MCF will be awarding over $2 million to support the most promising cancer-fighting programs available to our community.
Cancer is one of the most expensive medical conditions to treat in the United States. In Maine, patients often face additional barriers in accessing their care and the financial distress among cancer patients has only increased over the last several years.
This March, MCF awarded $50K in Patient Support Grants to five organizations, which will address the immediate needs of Maine cancer patients. Patients will now have access to financial support for challenges like food insecurity, mortgage/rental assistance, household expenses, medical expenses, transportation, and other basic needs.
Cancer screening plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention of cancer. It allows for the identification of cancer or precancerous conditions in individuals who may not yet have symptoms, leading to earlier treatment and improved outcomes. Screening can detect cancers at more treatable stages when they are smaller and less likely to have spread, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing mortality rates.
This May, Maine Cancer Foundation will fund evidence-based interventions to increase the number of and/or improve the quality of cancer screening in Maine, ensuring everyone has access to these critical services.
Cancer prevention aims to reduce the occurrence of cancer by addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting proactive health behaviors, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and decreased risk of cancer.
Reducing tobacco use, being sun safe, limiting alcohol use, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight are all evidence-based ways to reduce the risk of cancer. Additionally, for youth, receiving the HPV vaccine helps prevent several types of cancer.
This summer, Maine Cancer Foundation will award grants for projects that support vital cancer prevention efforts and reduce the risk of cancer for all Mainers.
Patient navigation plays a crucial role in providing support and guidance to cancer patients throughout their journey from diagnosis to survivorship. Navigators help patients navigate complex healthcare systems, understand their diagnosis and treatment options, access resources, and overcome barriers to care such as financial, logistical, and psychosocial challenges. They serve as advocates for patients, facilitating communication between healthcare providers and ensuring that patients receive timely and coordinated care.
This fall, Maine Cancer Foundation will award grants to develop and support cancer patient navigation programs that help patients throughout the state navigate their care.
Transportation and lodging services are vital for cancer patients who often need to travel long distances to access specialized cancer care. These services address the logistical challenges patients face in getting to and from medical appointments, particularly for treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgeries that require frequent visits. Additionally, lodging services provide accommodation for patients and their families who need to stay near treatment centers for extended periods.
Maine Cancer Foundation recognizes the important role that transportation to and from cancer care and lodging close to healthcare facilities plays in helping cancer patients. We are committed to funding organizations who provide these vital services to Mainers.
