A cancer diagnosis can send someone’s finances into a tailspin. Sometimes, all that is needed is a small amount of money to help a patient get by until they can access other resources. The Oregon Cancer Foundation’s Financial Assistance Program offers that bridge of support, helping cancer survivors in Lane County when they need it most.

Bridging the gap
Oregon Cancer Foundation provides a variety of resources to cancer survivors, including support groups and educational classes. However, its largest area of support is financial assistance, which helps eligible patients by paying up to $500 towards their bills each year.

“That can include things like utility bills, rent and mortgage payments, insurance premiums—bills that come with everyday life,” says Andrew King, OCF’s program coordinator. “We can buy someone a cord of firewood for their woodstove if that’s how they heat their house in the winter. Sometimes, we can help out with a car repair.”

In the last 12 months, Oregon Cancer Foundation has served more than 300 applicants in paying more than 600 bills, yet requests for assistance are increasing. To be eligible for assistance, applicants must be a Lane County resident who is currently receiving cancer treatment or has received treatment within the past six months.

“Unfortunately, life doesn’t stop when you’re in treatment,” Andrew says. “Bills keep coming. We’re just trying to be there for people in that moment to ease that burden, even if it’s just a little bit.”

Requests for assistance can be made by calling Oregon Cancer Foundation at 541-632-3654.