Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer, Cancer Facts 8.1

Cancer Facts

Date reviewed: 9/23/2004

National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families

People with cancer and their families sometimes need assistance coping with the emotional as well as the practical aspects of their disease. This fact sheet includes some of the national organizations that provide this type of support. It is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all organizations that offer these services in the United States, nor does inclusion of any particular organization imply endorsement by the National Cancer Institute, the National Institutes of Health, or the Department of Health and Human Services. The intent of this fact sheet is to provide information useful to individuals nationally. For that reason, it does not include the many local groups that offer valuable assistance to patients and their families in individual states or cities.

Organization:	Alliance for Lung Cancer Advocacy, Support, and Education (ALCASE)
Address:	Post Office Box 849 Vancouver, WA 98666
Telephone:	360–696–2436 1–800–298–2436
E-mail:	info@alcase.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.alcase.org

ALCASE offers programs designed to help improve the quality of life of people with lung cancer and their families. Programs include education about the disease, psychosocial support, and advocacy about issues that concern lung cancer survivors.

Organization:	American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA)
Address:	2720 River Road Des Plaines, IL 60018
Telephone:	847–827–9910 1–800–886–2282 (1–800–886–ABTA)
E-mail:	info@abta.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.abta.org

The ABTA funds brain tumor research and provides information to help patients make educated decisions about their health care. The ABTA offers printed materials about the research and treatment of brain tumors, and provides listings of physicians, treatment facilities, and support groups throughout the country. A limited selection of Spanish-language publications is available.

Organization:	American Cancer Society (ACS)
Address:	1599 Clifton Road, NE. Atlanta, GA 30329–4251
Telephone:	404–320–3333 1–800–227–2345 (1–800–ACS–2345)
Internet Web site:	http://www.cancer.org

The ACS is a voluntary organization that offers a variety of services to patients and their families. The ACS also supports research, provides printed materials, and conducts educational programs. Staff can accept calls and distribute publications in Spanish. A local ACS unit may be listed in the white pages of the telephone directory under “American Cancer Society.”

American Cancer Society (ACS) Supported Programs:

Cancer Survivors Network (http://www.acscsn.org)
This is both a telephone and Web-based service for cancer survivors, their families, caregivers, and friends. The telephone component (1–877–333–HOPE) provides survivors and families access to pre-recorded discussions. The Web-based component offers live online chat sessions, virtual support groups, pre-recorded talk shows, and personal stories.
I Can Cope
I Can Cope is a patient education program that is designed to help patients, families, and friends cope with the day-to-day issues of living with cancer.
International Association of Laryngectomees (http://www.larynxlink.com)
This program assists people who have lost their voice as a result of cancer. It provides information on the skills needed by laryngectomees and works toward total rehabilitation of patients.
Look Good. . .Feel Better (http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org)
This program was developed by the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association Foundation in cooperation with ACS and the National Cosmetology Association. It focuses on techniques that can help people undergoing cancer treatment improve their appearance. The entire program is also available in Spanish.
Reach to Recovery
The Reach to Recovery Program is a rehabilitation program for men and women who have or have had breast cancer. The program helps breast cancer patients meet the physical, emotional, and cosmetic needs related to their disease and its treatment.

Organization:	American Foundation for Urologic Disease (AFUD)
Address:	Suite 410 1000 Corporate Boulevard Linthicum, MD 21090
Telephone:	410–689–3990 1–800–828–7866
E-mail:	Available through the Web site
Internet Web site:	http://www.afud.org

The AFUD supports research; provides education to patients, the general public, and health professionals; and offers patient support services for those who have or may be at risk for a urologic disease or disorder. They provide information on urologic disease and dysfunctions, including prostate cancer treatment options, bladder health, and sexual function. They also offer prostate cancer support groups (Prostate Cancer Network). Some Spanish-language publications are available.

Organization:	American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR)
Address:	1759 R Street, NW. Washington, DC 20009
Telephone:	202–328–7744 1–800–843–8114
E-mail:	aicrweb@aicr.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.aicr.org

The AICR provides information about cancer prevention, particularly through diet and nutrition. They offer a toll-free nutrition hotline and funding of research grants. The AICR also has a wide array of consumer and health professional brochures, plus health aids about diet and nutrition and their link to cancer and cancer prevention. The AICR also offers the AICR CancerResource, an information and resource program for cancer patients. A limited selection of Spanish-language publications is available.

Organization:	The Brain Tumor Society
Address:	Suite 3–H 124 Watertown Street Watertown, MA 02472
Telephone:	617–924–9997 1–800–770–8287 (1–800–770–TBTS)
E-mail:	info@tbts.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.tbts.org

The Brain Tumor Society provides information about brain tumors and related conditions for patients and their families. They offer a patient/family telephone network, educational publications, funding for research projects, and access to support groups for patients.

Organization:	Cancer Care, Inc.
Address:	National Office 275 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10001
Telephone:	212–712–8080 1–800–813–4673 (1–800–813–HOPE) 212–712–8400 (Administration)
E-mail:	info@cancercare.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.cancercare.org

Cancer Care is a national nonprofit agency that offers free support, information, financial assistance, and practical help to people with cancer and their loved ones. Services are provided by oncology social workers and are available in person, over the telephone, and through the agency’s Web site. Cancer Care’s reach also extends to professionals—providing education, information, and assistance. A section of the Cancer Care Web site and some publications are available in Spanish, and staff can respond to calls and e-mails in Spanish.

Cancer Care also operates the AVONCares Program for Medically Underserved Women, which provides financial assistance to low income, under- and uninsured, underserved women throughout the country who need supportive services (transportation, child care, and home care) related to the treatment of breast and cervical cancers.

Organization:	Cancer Hope Network
Address:	Two North Road Chester, NJ 07930
Telephone:	1–877–467–3638 (1–877–HOPENET)
E-mail:	info@cancerhopenetwork.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.cancerhopenetwork.org

The Cancer Hope Network provides individual support to cancer patients and their families by matching them with trained volunteers who have undergone and recovered from a similar cancer experience. Such matches are based on the type and stage of cancer, treatments used, side effects experienced, and other factors.

Organization:	Cancer Information and Counseling Line (CICL) (a service of the AMC Cancer Research Center)
Address:	1600 Pierce Street Denver, CO 80214
Telephone:	1–800–525–3777
E-mail:	ciclhelp@amc.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.amc.org/html/info/h_info_cicl.html

The CICL, part of the Psychosocial Program of the AMC Cancer Research Center, is a toll-free telephone service for cancer patients, their family members and friends, cancer survivors, and the general public. Professional counselors provide up-to-date medical information, emotional support through short-term counseling, and resource referrals to callers nationwide between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. MST, Monday through Friday. Individuals may also submit questions about cancer and request resources via e-mail.

Organization:	Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation
Address:	Suite 500 1600 Duke Street Alexandria, VA 22314
Telephone:	703–836–4412 1–800–227–2732 (1–800–227–CRFA)
E-mail:	info@preventcancer.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.preventcancer.org

The Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation seeks to prevent cancer by funding research and providing educational materials on early detection and nutrition.

Organization:	Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation (CCCF)
Address:	Post Office Box 498 Kensington, MD 20895–0498
Telephone:	301–962–3520 1–800–366–2223 (1–800–366–CCCF)
E-mail:	info@candlelighters.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.candlelighters.org

The CCCF is a nonprofit organization that provides information, peer support, and advocacy through publications, an information clearinghouse, and a network of local support groups. A financial aid list is available that lists organizations to which eligible families may apply for assistance.

Organization:	Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF)
Address:	Suite 1301 274 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10016
Telephone:	212–448–9494 1–866–228–4673 (1–866–228–HOPE)
E-mail:	info@cbtf.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.cbtf.org

The CBTF is a nonprofit organization that funds research and provides support, education, and advocacy for children with brain and spinal cord tumors and their families. It also provides educational materials (including a Spanish-language publication) and cosponsors conferences and seminars for families, survivors, and health care professionals that offer the latest information about research, treatments, and strategies for living. Through CBTF’s Parent-to-Parent Network, families share their experiences with others in similar situations.

Organization:	Children’s Hospice International®
Address:	Suite 230 901 North Pitt Street Alexandria, VA 22314
Telephone:	703–684–0330 1–800–242–4453 (1–800–2–4–CHILD)
E-mail:	chiorg@aol.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.chionline.org

Children’s Hospice International provides a network of support for dying children and their families. It serves as a clearinghouse for research programs and support groups, and offers educational materials and training programs on pain management and the care of seriously ill children.

Organization:	Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA)
Address:	175 Ninth Avenue New York, NY 10011
Telephone:	212–627–7451 (Main office) 1–877–422–2030 (Helpline)
E-mail:	info@ccalliance.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.ccalliance.org

The CCA is an organization of colon and rectal cancer survivors, their families, caregivers, and the medical community. The Alliance provides patient support and public education, supports research, and advocates for the needs of cancer patients and their families. The CCA offers information including brochures and booklets, a newsletter, a toll-free Helpline, and weekly online chats. It also offers the CCA Buddies Network, which matches survivors and caregivers with others in a similar situation for one-on-one emotional support. The CCA has volunteers who speak Spanish.

Organization:	Colorectal Cancer Network
Address:	Post Office Box 182 Kensington, MD 20895–0182
Telephone:	301–879–1500
E-mail:	ccnetwork@colorectal-cancer.net
Internet Web site:	http://www.colorectal-cancer.net

The Colorectal Cancer Network is a national advocacy group that raises public awareness about colorectal cancer and provides support services to colorectal cancer patients and their families, friends, and caregivers. Services include support groups; an Internet chat room; e-mail listservs for survivors, caregivers, and advocates; hospital visitation programs; and a “One on One” service that connects newly diagnosed individuals with long-term survivors. The Network also provides literature on screening, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for colorectal cancer.

Organization:
ENCORE^Plus®

Address:
YWCA of the USA
Office of Women’s Health Advocacy
Suite 700
1015 18th Street, NW.
Washington, DC 20036

Telephone:
202–467–0801
1–800–953–7587 (1–800–95E–PLUS)

E-mail:
cgould@ywca.org

Internet Web site:
http://www.ywca.org

ENCORE^Plus is the YWCA’s discussion and exercise program for women who have had breast cancer surgery. It is designed to help restore physical strength and emotional well-being. A local branch of the YWCA, listed in the telephone directory, can provide more information about
ENCORE^Plus.

Organization:	Gilda’s Club® Worldwide
Address:	Suite 1402 322 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10001
Telephone:	1–888–445–3248 (1–888–GILDA–4–U)
E-mail:	info@gildasclub.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.gildasclub.org

Gilda’s Club Worldwide works with communities to start and maintain local Gilda’s Clubs, which provide social and emotional support to cancer patients, their families, and friends. Lectures, workshops, support and networking groups, special events, and children’s programs are offered. Services are available in Spanish.

Organization:	HOSPICELINK
Address:	Three Unity Square Post Office Box 98 Machiasport, ME 04655–0098
Telephone:	207–255–8800 1–800–331–1620
E-mail:	HOSPICEALL@aol.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.hospiceworld.org

HOSPICELINK helps patients and their families find support services in their communities. They offer information about hospice and palliative care and can refer cancer patients and their families to local hospice and palliative care programs.

Organization:	International Myeloma Foundation (IMF)
Address:	Suite 206 12650 Riverside Drive North Hollywood, CA 91607–3421
Telephone:	818–487–7455 1–800–452–2873 (1–800–452–CURE)
E-mail:	TheIMF@myeloma.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.myeloma.org

The IMF supports education, treatment, and research for multiple myeloma. They provide a toll-free hotline, seminars, and educational materials for patients and their families. Although the IMF does not sponsor support groups, they do keep a list of other organizations’ support groups and provide information on how to start a support group. A section of the IMF Web site and some printed materials are available in Spanish.

Organization:	International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF)
Address:	Suite 301 2300 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34239–6226
Telephone:	941–927–4963
E-mail:	IWMF1@juno.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.iwmf.com

The IWMF provides encouragement and support to people with Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia (WM) and their families, and works to increase awareness of issues related to WM. The IWMF also encourages and supports increased research toward finding more effective treatments and ultimately a cure. The IWMF offers publications, including a quarterly newsletter, The IWMF Torch, and bulletins. Through its Internet Talklist, regional support groups, and telephone Lifeline Project, the Foundation also helps people with WM contact others with this disease. People may also participate in the IWMF’s annual Educational Forum to hear prominent researchers and other speakers, and to share their experiences with other participants.

Organization:	Kidney Cancer Association
Address:	Suite 203 1234 Sherman Avenue Evanston, IL 60202–1375
Telephone:	847–332–1051 1–800–850–9132
E-mail:	office@kidneycancerassociation.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.kidneycancerassociation.org

The Kidney Cancer Association supports research, offers printed materials about the diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer, sponsors support groups, and provides physician referral information.

Organization:	Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF)
Address:	Post Office Box 161150 Austin, TX 78716–1150
Telephone:	512–236–8820
Internet Web site:	http://www.laf.org

The LAF, a nonprofit organization founded by cancer survivor and cyclist Lance Armstrong, provides resources and support services to people diagnosed with cancer and their families. The LAF’s services include Cycle of Hope, a national cancer education campaign for people with cancer and those at risk for developing the disease, and the Cancer Profiler, a free interactive treatment decision support tool. The LAF also provides scientific and research grants for the better understanding of cancer and cancer survivorship.

Organization:	The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Address:	1311 Mamaroneck Avenue White Plains, NY 10605–5221
Telephone:	914–949–5213 1–800–955–4572
E-mail:	infocenter@leukemia-lymphoma.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org

The goal of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is to find cures for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and multiple myeloma and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. The Society supports medical research and provides health education materials, as well as the following services: patient financial aid for specified treatment expenses and transportation, family support groups, First Connection (a professionally supervised peer support program), referrals, school re-entry materials, and public and professional education. The Society also provides audiotapes in English and some Spanish-language publications.

Organization:	Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC)
Address:	Suite 204 10 East Athens Avenue Ardmore, PA 19003
Telephone:	610–645–4567 1–888–753–5222 (1–888–753–LBBC) (Survivors’ Helpline)
E-mail:	mail@lbbc.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.lbbc.org

The LBBC is an educational organization that aims to empower women with breast cancer to live as long as possible with the best quality of life. The LBBC offers an interactive message board and information about upcoming conferences and teleconferences on its Web site. In addition, the organization has a toll-free Survivors’ Helpline, a Young Survivors Network for women diagnosed with breast cancer who are age 45 or younger, and outreach programs for medically underserved communities. The LBBC also offers a quarterly educational newsletter and a book for African American women living with breast cancer.

Organization:	The Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research
Address:	1111 Stewart Avenue Bethpage, NY 11714
Telephone:	516–803–1000 1–866–789–1000
E-mail:	Available through the Web site
Internet Web site:	http://www.lustgartenfoundation.org/

The Lustgarten Foundation funds research, advocates for research funding, and raises awareness of pancreatic cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The Foundation assists patients and their families in obtaining the most accurate, up-to-date information about pancreatic cancer. It provides educational materials and publications about pancreatic cancer, including a Spanish-language publication. It also has an on-staff social worker available to make referrals to cancer support services.

Organization:	Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF)
For patient services:
Address:	Suite 207 8800 Venice Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90034
Telephone:	310–204–7040 1–800–500–9976
E-mail:	LRF@lymphoma.org (general information) helpline@lymphoma.org (patient services)
Internet Web site:	http://www.lymphoma.org/
For research and advocacy:
Address:	19^th Floor 111 Broadway New York, NY 10006
Telephone:	212–349–2910 1–800–235–6848
E-mail:	researchgrants@lymphoma.org (research program) advocacy@lymphoma.org (advocacy)

In 2001, the Lymphoma Research Foundation of America (LRFA) and the Cure For Lymphoma Foundation (CFL) merged to become the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF). The LRF’s mission is to eradicate lymphoma and serve those touched by this disease. The LRF funds research, advocates for lymphoma-related legislation, and provides educational and support programs for patients and their families.

Organization:	The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)
Address:	Suite 201 51 Locust Avenue New Canaan, CT 06840
Telephone:	203–972–1250
E-mail:	info@themmrf.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.multiplemyeloma.org

The MMRF supports research grants and professional and patient symposia on multiple myeloma and related blood cancers. The MMRF publishes a quarterly newsletter, and provides referrals and information packets free of charge to patients and family members.

Organization:	National Asian Women’s Health Organization (NAWHO)
Address:	Suite 900 250 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94104
Telephone:	415–989–9747
E-mail:	nawho@nawho.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.nawho.org

The NAWHO is working to improve the health status of Asian women and families through research, education, leadership, and public policy programs. They have resources for Asian women in English, Cantonese, Laotian, Vietnamese, and Korean. Publications on subjects such as reproductive rights, breast and cervical cancer, and tobacco control are available.

Organization:	National Bone Marrow Transplant Link (nbmtLink)
Address:	Suite 108 20411 West 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48076
Telephone:	1–800–546–5268 (1–800–LINK–BMT)
E-mail:	nbmtlink@aol.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.nbmtlink.org/

The nbmtLink motto is “A second chance at life is our first priority.” The nbmtLink operates a 24-hour, toll-free number and provides peer support to bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients and their families. It serves as an information center for prospective BMT patients as well as a resource for health professionals. Educational publications, brochures, and videos are available. Staff can respond to calls in Spanish.

Organization:	National Brain Tumor Foundation (NBTF)
Address:	Suite 612 22 Battery Street San Francisco, CA 94111–5520
Telephone:	415–834–9970 1–800–934–2873 (1–800–934–CURE)
E-mail:	nbtf@braintumor.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.braintumor.org

The NBTF provides patients and their families with information on how to cope with their brain tumors. This organization conducts national and regional conferences, publishes printed materials for patients and family members, provides access to a national network of patient support groups, and assists in answering patient inquiries. The NBTF also awards grants to fund research. Staff are available to answer calls in Spanish, and some Spanish-language publications are available.

Organization:	National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC)
Address:	Suite 1300 1101 17^th Street, NW. Washington, DC 20036
Telephone:	202–296–7477 1–800–622–2838
E-mail:	info@stopbreastcancer.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.stopbreastcancer.org

The NBCC is a breast cancer advocacy group that educates and trains individuals to become advocates who effectively influence public policies that affect breast cancer research and treatment. It also promotes breast cancer research, and works to improve access to high-quality breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment for all women.

Organization:	National Childhood Cancer Foundation (NCCF)
Address:	440 East Huntington Drive Post Office Box 60012 Arcadia, CA 91066–6012
Telephone:	626–447–1674 1–800–458–6223
E-mail:	info@nccf.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.nccf.org

The NCCF supports research conducted by a network of institutions, each of which has a team of doctors, scientists, and other specialists with the special skills required for the diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, and research on the cancers of infants, children, and young adults. Advocating for children with cancer and the centers that treat them is also a focus of the NCCF. A limited selection of Spanish-language publications is available.

Organization:	National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS)
Address:	Suite 770 1010 Wayne Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20910–5600
Telephone:	301–650–9127 1–877–622–7937 (1–877–NCCS–YES)
E-mail:	info@canceradvocacy.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.canceradvocacy.org

The NCCS is a network of groups and individuals that offer support to cancer survivors and their loved ones. It provides information and resources on cancer support, advocacy, and quality of life issues. A section of the NCCS Web site and a limited selection of publications are available in Spanish.

Organization:	National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO)
Address:	Suite 625 1700 Diagonal Road Alexandria, VA 22314
Telephone:	703–837–1500 1–800–658–8898 (Helpline)
E-mail:	info@nhpco.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.nhpco.org

The NHPCO is an association of programs that provide hospice and palliative care. It is designed to increase awareness about hospice services and to champion the rights and issues of terminally ill patients and their family members. They offer discussion groups, publications, information about how to find a hospice, and information about the financial aspects of hospice. Some Spanish-language publications are available, and staff are able to answer calls in Spanish.

Organization:	National Lymphedema Network (NLN)
Address:	Suite 1111 1611 Telegraph Avenue Oakland, CA 94612–2138
Telephone:	510–208–3200 1–800–541–3259
E-mail:	nln@lymphnet.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.lymphnet.org

The NLN provides education and guidance to lymphedema patients, health care professionals, and the general public by disseminating information on the prevention and management of primary and secondary lymphedema. They provide a toll free support hotline, a referral service to lymphedema treatment centers and health care professionals, a quarterly newsletter with information about medical and scientific developments, support groups, pen pals, educational courses for health care professionals and patients, and a computer database. Some Spanish-language materials are available.

Organization:	National Marrow Donor Program® (NMDP)
Address:	Suite 500 3001 Broadway Street, NE. Minneapolis, MN 55413–1753
Telephone:	612–627–5800 1–800–627–7692 (1–800–MARROW–2) 1–888–999–6743 (Office of Patient Advocacy)
Internet Web site:	http://www.marrow.org

The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), which is funded by the Federal Government, was created to improve the effectiveness of the search for bone marrow donors. It keeps a registry of potential bone marrow donors and provides free information on bone marrow transplantation, peripheral blood stem cell transplant, and unrelated donor stem cell transplant, including the use of umbilical cord blood. The NMDP’s Office of Patient Advocacy assists transplant patients and their physicians through the donor search and transplant process by providing information, referrals, support, and advocacy.

Organization:	National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC)
Address:	Suite 14 500 Northeast Spanish River Boulevard Boca Raton, FL 33431
Telephone:	561–393–0005 1–888–682–7426 (1–888–OVARIAN)
E-mail:	NOCC@ovarian.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.ovarian.org

The NOCC raises awareness about ovarian cancer and promotes education about this disease. They have a toll-free telephone number for information, referral, support, and education about ovarian cancer. They also offer support groups, a database of gynecologic oncologists searchable by state, and educational materials. A limited selection of Spanish-language publications is available.

Organization:	National Patient Travel Center (NPTC)
Address:	Suite One 4620 Haygood Road Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Telephone:	1–800–296–1217
E-mail:	mercymedical@erols.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.patienttravel.org

The NPTC provides the National Patient Travel Helpline, a telephone service which facilitates patient access to charitable medical air transportation resources in the United States. The NPTC also offers information about discounted airline ticket programs for patients and patient escorts, operates Special-Lift and Child-Lift programs, and brings ambulatory outpatients to the United States from many overseas locations.

Organization:	The Oral Cancer Foundation
Address:	Number 205 3419 Via Lido Newport Beach, CA 92663
Telephone:	949–646–8000
E-mail:	info@oralcancerfoundation.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org

The Oral Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to saving lives through education, research, prevention, advocacy, and support for persons with oral cancer. The Foundation provides an online Oral Cancer Forum, which includes a message board and chat room that connect newly diagnosed patients, family members, and the public.

Organization:	Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA)
Address:	Suite 413 910 17^th Street, NW. Washington, DC 20006
Telephone:	202–331–1332
E-mail:	ocna@ovariancancer.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.ovariancancer.org

The Alliance works to increase public and professional understanding of ovarian cancer and to advocate for research to determine more effective ways to diagnose, treat, and cure this disease. The Alliance distributes informational materials; sponsors an annual advocacy conference for survivors and families; advocates on the issues of cancer to the ovarian cancer community; and works with women’s groups, seniors, and health professionals to increase awareness of ovarian cancer.

Organization:	Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN)
Address:	Suite 131 2221 Rosecrans Avenue El Segundo, CA 90245
Telephone:	310–725–0025 1–877–272–6226 (1–877–2–PANCAN)
E-mail:	information@pancan.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.pancan.org

PanCAN, a nonprofit advocacy organization, educates health professionals and the general public about pancreatic cancer to increase awareness of the disease. PanCAN also advocates for increased funding of pancreatic cancer research and promotes access to and awareness of the latest medical advances, support networks, clinical trials, and reimbursement for care.

Organization:	Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
Address:	Suite B 753 Thimble Shoals Boulevard Newport News, VA 23606
Telephone:	757–873–6668 1–800–532–5274
E-mail:	help@patientadvocate.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.patientadvocate.org

The PAF provides education, legal counseling, and referrals to cancer patients and survivors concerning managed care, insurance, financial issues, job discrimination, and debt crisis matters. The Patient Assistance Program is a subsidiary of the PAF. It provides financial assistance to patients who meet certain qualifications. The toll-free number is 1–866–512–3861.

Organization:	Prostate Cancer Foundation
Address:	1250 Fourth Street Santa Monica, CA 90401
Telephone:	310–570–4700 1–800–757–2873 (1–800–757–CURE)
E-mail:	info@prostatecancerfoundation.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.prostatecancerfoundation.org/

The Prostate Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides funding for research projects to improve methods of diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. It also offers printed resources for prostate cancer survivors and their families. The mission of the Prostate Cancer Foundation is to find a cure for prostate cancer.

Organization:	R. A. Bloch Cancer Foundation, Inc.
Address:	4400 Main Street Kansas City, MO 64111
Telephone:	816–932–8453 (816–WE–BUILD) 1–800–433–0464
E-mail:	hotline@hrblock.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.blochcancer.org

The R. A. Bloch Cancer Foundation matches newly diagnosed cancer patients with trained, home-based volunteers who have been treated for the same type of cancer. They also distribute informational materials, including a multidisciplinary list of institutions that offer second opinions. Information is available in Spanish.

Organization:	Sisters Network®, Inc.
Address:	Suite 4206 8787 Woodway Drive Houston, TX 77063
Telephone:	713–781–0255 1–866–781–1808
E-mail:	sisnet4@aol.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.sistersnetworkinc.org

Sisters Network seeks to increase local and national attention to the impact that breast cancer has in the African American community. All chapters are run by breast cancer survivors and receive volunteer assistance from community leaders and associate members. The services provided by Sisters Network include individual/group support, community education, advocacy, and research. The national headquarters serves as a resource and referral base for survivors, clinical trials, and private/government agencies. Teleconferences are held to update chapters with the latest information and share new ideas. An educational brochure designed for underserved women is available. In addition, a national African American breast cancer survivors newsletter is distributed to survivors, medical facilities, government agencies, organizations, and churches nationwide.

Organization:	The Skin Cancer Foundation
Address:	Suite 1403 245 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10016
Telephone:	212–725–5176 1–800–754–6490 (1–800–SKIN–490)
E-mail:	info@skincancer.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.skincancer.org

Major goals of The Skin Cancer Foundation are to increase public awareness of the importance of taking protective measures against the damaging rays of the sun and to teach people how to recognize the early signs of skin cancer. They conduct public and medical education programs to help reduce skin cancer.

Organization:	Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation
Westside location:
Address:	Suite 450 1850 Sawtelle Road Los Angeles, CA 90025
Telephone:	310–479–1212 1–800–315–2580
E-mail:	joan.hilton@slsb.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.slsb.org

Mid-Wilshire location:
Address:	Suite 2250 5900 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90036
Telephone:	323–634–0080 1–800–274–7827
E-mail:	joan.hilton@slsb.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.slsb.org

In July 2004, the Starlight Children’s Foundation and the STARBRIGHT Foundation merged to form the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation. Starlight Starbright is an international nonprofit organization designed to help seriously ill children and adolescents cope with the psychosocial and medical challenges they face. Starlight Starbright offers in-hospital, outpatient, school, and home-based programs and services free of charge to children, adolescents, and their families during the course of an illness and during recovery. Staff can respond to calls in Spanish, and some of the programs are offered in Spanish.

Organization:	Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer (SPOHNC)
Address:	Post Office Box 53 Locust Valley, NY 11560–0053
Telephone:	1–800–377–0928
E-mail:	info@spohnc.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.spohnc.org

The SPOHNC is a self-help organization that serves oral and head and neck cancer patients, survivors, and their families. The organization offers support group meetings, information, newsletters, and teleconferences. The SPOHNC also offers a “Survivor to Survivor” network which pairs survivors or their family members with volunteers who have had a similar diagnosis and treatment program.

Organization:	The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Address:	Suite 250 5005 LBJ Freeway Dallas, TX 75244
Telephone:	972–855–1600 1–800–462–9273 (1–800–I’M AWARE®)
E-mail:	helpline@komen.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.breastcancerinfo.com

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation’s mission is to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening, and treatment. This organization operates a national toll-free breast cancer helpline (1–800–I’M AWARE®) that is answered by trained volunteers whose lives have been personally touched by breast cancer. Breast health and breast cancer materials, including pamphlets, brochures, booklets, posters, videos, CD-ROMs, fact sheets, and community outreach materials are available. Staff can respond to calls in Spanish, and some publications are available in Spanish.

Organization:	Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (ThyCa)
Address:	Post Office Box 1545 New York, NY 10159–1545
Telephone:	1–877–588–7904
E-mail:	thyca@thyca.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.thyca.org

ThyCa offers a network of services to thyroid cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, and friends. These services include e-mail support groups, person-to-person support, local support groups, and a toll-free survivors’ telephone line. ThyCa also offers a low-iodine cookbook, newsletters, conferences, and workshops. The organization has volunteers who are fluent in Spanish.

Organization:	United Ostomy Association, Inc.
Address:	Suite 200 19772 MacArthur Boulevard Irvine, CA 92612–2405
Telephone:	949–660–8624 1–800–826–0826 (6:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., Pacific time)
E-mail:	uoa@deltanet.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.uoa.org

The United Ostomy Association helps ostomy patients through mutual aid and emotional support. It provides information to patients and the public and sends volunteers to visit with new ostomy patients.

Organization:	US® TOO! International, Inc.
Address:	5003 Fairview Avenue Downers Grove, IL 60515
Telephone:	630–795–1002 (in the Chicago area) 1–800–808–7866 (1–800–80–US TOO)
E-mail:	ustoo@ustoo.com
Internet Web site:	http://www.ustoo.org

US TOO is a prostate cancer support group organization. Goals of US TOO are to increase awareness of prostate cancer in the community, educate men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, offer support groups, and provide the latest information about treatment for this disease. A limited selection of Spanish-language publications is available.

Organization:	Vital Options® International TeleSupport® Cancer Network
Address:	Suite 645 15821 Ventura Boulevard Encino, CA 91436–2946
Telephone:	818–788–5225 1–800–477–7666 (1–800–GRP–ROOM)
E-mail:	info@vitaloptions.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.vitaloptions.org

The mission of Vital Options is to use communications technology to reach people dealing with cancer. This organization holds a weekly syndicated call-in cancer radio talk show called “The Group Room®,” which provides a forum for patients, long-term survivors, family members, physicians, and therapists to discuss cancer issues. Listeners can participate in the show during its broadcast every Sunday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time by calling the toll-free telephone number. A live Web simulcast of “The Group Room” can be heard by logging onto the Vital Options Web site.

Organization:	The Wellness Community
Address:	Suite 54 919 18^th Street, NW. Washington, DC 20006
Telephone:	202–659–9709 1–888–793–9355 (1–888–793–WELL)
E-mail:	help@thewellnesscommunity.org
Internet Web site:	http://www.thewellnesscommunity.org

The Wellness Community provides free psychological and emotional support to cancer patients and their families. They offer support groups facilitated by licensed therapists, stress reduction and cancer education workshops, nutrition guidance, exercise sessions, and social events.

Organization:	Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, Inc.
Address:	Suite 500 212 West Van Buren Street Chicago, IL 60607
Telephone:	312–986–8338 1–800–221–2141 (English) 1–800–986–9505 (Spanish)
E-mail:	askyme@y-me.org (English); latino@y-me.org (Spanish)
Internet Web site:	http://www.y-me.org

The Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization provides information and support to anyone who has been touched by breast cancer. Y-ME serves women with breast cancer and their families through their national hotline (available 24 hours a day), open-door groups, early detection workshops, and support programs. Numerous local chapter offices are located throughout the United States. A section of the Y-ME Web site, a toll-free hotline, and publications are available in Spanish.

Criteria for inclusion of organizations in this fact sheet

The national, nonprofit organizations included in this fact sheet, like NCI, provide services and/or information to cancer patients and their families. They also affirm the importance of scientific research and investigations of new approaches to cancer detection, treatment, and prevention.

If you would like to nominate your organization for inclusion in this fact sheet, please write to the following address for an application form:

National Cancer Institute
Fact Sheet Application Form
Room 3035A
6116 Executive Boulevard, MSC 8322
Bethesda, MD 20892–8322

All submissions will be reviewed biannually. Organizations will receive notification of the results of the review.

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Related Topics

Publications (available on http://www.cancer.gov/publications)

Cancer Facts 2.8, Cancer Fund-Raising Organizations
Cancer Facts 8.3, Financial Assistance for Cancer Care
Cancer Facts 8.8, Cancer Support Groups: Questions and Answers
Cancer Facts 8.9, How To Find Resources in Your Own Community If You Have Cancer

National Cancer Institute (NCI) Resources

Cancer Information Service (toll-free): Telephone: 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237); TTY: 1–800–332–8615
Online: NCI's Web site: http://www.cancer.gov; LiveHelp, NCI's live online assistance: https://cissecure.nci.nih.gov/livehelp/welcome.asp