Financial assistance may be available for some individuals with cancer from CancerCare, a nonprofit organization helping people cope with and manage the emotional and practical challenges of cancer. Two assistance programs tailored to specific individuals are available to meet financial challenges associated with transportation and pet care.
Transportation Assistance
Financial assistance for transportation to and from treatment is available via CancerCare’s “Transportation Patient Assistance Program for Multiple Myeloma Patients.” By providing treatment transportation financial assistance and a host of free and easy-to-access support services, CancerCare helps patients overcome geographic, logistical, physical, and time barriers. The group’s aim is to help people undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma improve their capacity to manage their disease.
Financial Assistance for Pet Care
The “Pet Assistance and Wellness (PAW) Program” provided by CancerCare is a one-of-a-kind program to assist people undergoing cancer treatment with the challenges of keeping their cat or dog at home. The program provides education specific to pet care and self-care during cancer treatment. It also provides funds to eligible individuals for expenses such as pet food; veterinarian expenses; pet walking/sitting and other caregiving services; flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medications; boarding fees; and vaccinations.
One-third of past recipients of financial assistance from the PAW Program who were surveyed indicated they have only their pet at home for emotional support.
Contact CancerCare
With respect to both financial assistance funds above, individuals with cancer who call CancerCare via the Hopeline (1-800-813-HOPE [4673]) will speak with a professional oncology social worker who will assess their financial, emotional, and practical needs, and who will work with CancerCare's financial assistance specialists to determine their eligibility for financial assistance, including verifying income and active treatment status. Verification of pet ownership is also required for PAW Program financial assistance.
For more information, visit www.cancercare.org or call 1-800-813-HOPE (4673).
