What is Practical Assistance?
WCRC exists to support you in tangible and concrete ways throughout this journey. So that you can remain focused on your health, your treatment plan, your family, and the aspects of your life that bring you joy and nourishment, we strive to ease the logistical burdens and financial stressors of a cancer diagnosis. We know that some of the hardest parts of navigating cancer treatment are financial burdens and navigating a new and complex healthcare landscape. Read on to find out how we can support you with these aspects of your care.
Financial Assistance
At WCRC we recognize that navigating cancer is about so much more than what’s happening within your body. If you live in Alameda or Contra Costa Counties and are actively in treatment, then we may be able to help you. Your housing, access to healthy foods and transportation, availability of family and other caregivers, all play a role in your ability and motivation to fight this illness. A one-time grant of direct financial support allows you to take advantage of the resources around you that may otherwise feel beyond your reach. Applications are completed by a medical social worker, nurse navigator and/or another person on medical team. Grants will be awarded based on availability of funds.
The Faith Fancher Breast Cancer Fund
The Faith Fancher Breast Cancer Fund provides one-time support to low-income people who are actively in treatment for breast cancer and living in Alameda or Contra Costa County.
History of the Fund
Faith Fancher was a KTVU news reporter who, through her own breast cancer diagnosis, became committed to helping those in our community navigating the same. As a result of the Faith Fancher Fund, WCRC was able to offer the first direct financial support fund in the East Bay.
Impact
Since the creation of the fund in 2003, WCRC has provided over $1,083,685 million of direct financial assistance to more than 2,660 people with breast cancer.
“Thank you so much for the check that you sent to me. I have Stage 4 breast cancer. The funds that you sent to me were for oxygen. I was able to buy an oxygen concentrator through this grant. I am feeling better every day!! My tumors have even shrunk, yay!” –Grant Recipient
We are grateful to the To Celebrate Life Foundation, Walk Strong Bay Area, and other donors for helping to make these funds available to our community.
Minimum Requirements
Individual with low-income, actively in treatment for breast cancer and living in Alameda or Contra Costa County.
The Lindy Fund
The Lindy Fund provides one-time support to low-income people who are actively in treatment for all other types of cancer (excluding breast) and living in Alameda or Contra Costa County.
History of the Fund
Seeking a way to memorialize their loved one who passed following a battle with cancer, a generous donor endowed WCRC with the initial funding for the Lindy Fund. Inspired by the already existing Faith Fancher Emergency Breast Cancer Fund, they wanted a similar grant program available to cancer patients beyond breast cancer.
Impact
Since its creation in 2013, The Lindy Fund has provided over $627,820 to more than 1,600 patients.
“Thank you so much for the check that you sent to me and for the support and encouragement that I look forward to receiving from WCRC. I will be able to pay for utilities, food and transportation this month through this generous support.” – Grant Recipient
Minimum Requirements
Individual with low-income, actively in treatment for all types of cancer (except breast) and living in Alameda or Contra Costa County.
How to Apply?
A medical social worker, healthcare navigator, or other healthcare provider must submit an application on a client’s behalf. Applicants must currently be in treatment for cancer, reside in Alameda or Contra County and have an annual income level of $30,000 or below. Please reach out to your healthcare team to have them apply for you.
Please note that applications are processed once a month. For further information, please call 510.809.0217.