Cancer Assistance Program City of Hamilton and District

The Cancer Assistance Program City of Hamilton and District is a community-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing free services to individuals and families affected by cancer. Established to serve the greater region of Hamilton and surrounding communities, this organization focuses on alleviating the practical, financial, and emotional burdens associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Mission and Services

The program's mission is to support, educate, and empower individuals and families touched by cancer. It offers a range of practical and tangible services designed to create access, remove barriers, promote personal safety, reduce financial burdens, and enhance the emotional health of those affected by cancer.

• Equipment Loans: Home health equipment is available for loan at no charge, allowing patients to maintain their quality of life during treatment.
• Prosthetic and Cosmetic Services: The organization provides wigs, breast prostheses, and mastectomy bras to support patients' physical and emotional well-being.
• Transportation: Free transportation to and from medical appointments is offered, ensuring that patients can attend necessary treatments without financial stress.
• Nutritional Support: Monthly provisions of adult incontinence products and oral nutritional supplements are available to help manage diet-related challenges faced by cancer patients.
• Educational Resources: Practical education and support are provided through various means, including the Cancer Assist podcast.

Operations and Funding

The Cancer Assistance Program relies heavily on community support and volunteers to deliver its services. Over 150 volunteers annually contribute to service delivery, planning, fund development, and organizational governance, alongside a small team of full-time and part-time staff. Despite its critical role, the organization does not receive sustainable government funding and thus depends on community generosity and fundraising events to continue its operations.

The program is registered as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency, under the business number 140262759RR0001, ensuring compliance with all relevant charitable regulations.

[1] https://cancerassist.ca [2] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-140262759RR0001?lang=en [3] https://cancerassist.ca/about-us/ [4] https://www.willpower.ca/charities/cancer-assistance-program/ [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/cancer-assistance-program-mount-hamilton-and-district/