Cancer Support Resources in Alaska
Alaska’s vast geography creates some of the nation’s most extreme cancer care barriers — many villages are accessible only by small plane or boat. Patients in the Bush often relocate temporarily to Anchorage or Fairbanks for treatment, leaving families and support networks hundreds of miles behind. Getting a cancer diagnosis anywhere is hard. Getting one in rural Alaska, where the nearest specialist may require a flight that costs as much as a month’s rent, is something else entirely.
The scale of the logistical challenge is difficult to fully appreciate without a map. Alaska is larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined, yet the entire state holds fewer than 750,000 people. About half of those live in the Anchorage bowl. The remaining half are spread across a state with 663,268 square miles — including hundreds of communities with no road access at all. A cancer patient in Bethel, Nome, Kodiak, or a small Yukon River village faces a travel burden unlike anything most Americans will experience. Flights to Anchorage may cost hundreds of dollars one way. For patients needing weekly chemotherapy over months, those costs compound rapidly — and most insurance plans don’t cover medical travel expenses.
Alaska Native and American Indian communities face compounding cancer disparities. Alaska Natives experience elevated rates of colorectal, lung, and stomach cancers relative to the overall population, driven by a combination of genetic factors, tobacco use, diet, limited access to early screening, and healthcare systems that have historically underserved these communities. The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium and regional tribal health organizations have worked to address these gaps, but disparities persist. Several programs in this directory specifically serve Alaska Native patients with culturally responsive navigation and support.
The cost of living in Alaska is among the highest in the country, and that reality hits cancer patients particularly hard. Lost wages during treatment, travel costs, lodging in Anchorage or Seattle, and the high baseline cost of food and utilities create financial stress that statewide programs are designed to address but may not fully cover. Low-income patients may qualify for Medicaid, which Alaska expanded, but Medicaid doesn’t resolve the logistical and cost burden of traveling for care.
Alaska has a significant active-duty and veteran population tied to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage and Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, as well as a large Coast Guard presence. Veterans facing cancer — including diagnoses connected to Agent Orange, burn pit exposure, or other service-related hazards — may have access to VA oncology services at the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage. The isolation of Alaska can make navigating VA benefits particularly complex, and advocacy support is available.
Winter in Alaska adds another layer. Darkness, cold, and the psychological weight of long winters affect the mental health of cancer patients and caregivers in ways that aren’t always recognized. Emotional support programs, peer networks, and telehealth counseling services are especially important for Alaskans managing cancer in remote or isolated settings.
Whether you are being treated at Providence Alaska Medical Center, the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, a regional hospital in Juneau or Ketchikan, or traveling to Seattle for specialized care — this page lists organizations that help with the non-medical side: travel costs, lodging, money, emotional support, and navigating what comes next. Resources begin with statewide programs and move into regional sections by area.
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Statewide Resources
These organizations serve all of Alaska — by phone, online, or through regional offices. Start here if you are unsure where to look.
American Cancer Society — Alaska
📍 Statewide (multiple programs)
The ACS operates a 24/7 helpline available in over 200 languages and offers Road to Recovery transportation assistance. In Alaska, the ACS also helps connect patients with Hope Lodge accommodations in Seattle for those traveling south for treatment at Fred Hutchinson or other major cancer centers. Their patient navigators understand the unique geographic challenges Alaskans face.
- 24/7 helpline: 1-800-227-2345
- Road to Recovery free transportation coordination
- Hope Lodge referrals (Seattle location)
- Support groups and online community
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Cancer Treatment Center — Patient Travel Assistance
📍 Statewide (Anchorage-based)
Providence Alaska Medical Center’s cancer program coordinates with social workers to help patients access travel assistance programs for those coming from rural communities and remote areas of the state. Their social work team can connect patients with state and private funds specifically designed to cover airfare and lodging costs that are unique to Alaskan patients.
- Patient travel coordination for rural Alaskans
- Social worker navigation services
- Connections to state and private travel funds
- Lodging assistance coordination in Anchorage
Who: Cancer patients traveling to Anchorage for treatment
Cost: Free navigation; travel fund eligibility varies
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) — Chronic Disease Programs
📍 Statewide (Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage)
The ANTHC operates the Alaska Native Medical Center and provides comprehensive cancer care coordination for Alaska Native and American Indian patients. Their patient travel and lodging program, Tribal Travel, helps eligible patients get to Anchorage from remote villages. The ANTHC also funds community health aides and cancer navigators embedded in tribal communities across the state.
- Cancer care at Alaska Native Medical Center
- Tribal patient travel program
- Community health aide cancer navigation
- Culturally appropriate support services
Who: Alaska Native and American Indian patients
Cost: Free for eligible patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community — Online Programs
Because Alaska lacks a local Cancer Support Community affiliate, their national online programming is especially valuable for Alaskans. Free professionally led support groups, educational workshops, and mind-body classes are available entirely online, meaning patients in Fairbanks, Juneau, or a rural village can access them. Their helpline also connects you with a counselor who can help after diagnosis.
- Cancer Support Helpline: 1-888-793-9355
- Online support groups for patients and caregivers
- Virtual nutrition, exercise, and wellness programs
- MyLifeLine online community platform
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers statewide
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Angel Flight West — Alaska Medical Flights
📍 Statewide (air transportation)
Angel Flight West coordinates free air transportation for patients who must travel significant distances for medical care. In Alaska, this is critical — many patients face thousands of miles of travel to reach treatment. Volunteer pilots provide flights within and from Alaska when commercial options are not feasible or affordable. Applications are reviewed based on medical need and financial eligibility.
- Free air transportation for medical travel
- Covers within Alaska and to lower 48 treatment centers
- Application-based with medical verification
- Financial need and medical necessity reviewed
Who: Patients unable to afford air travel for cancer treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
The HealthWell Foundation provides financial assistance to underinsured Americans who cannot afford their medical treatment, including cancer. They maintain disease-specific funds and can help with insurance premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket treatment costs. Alaska’s high cost of living and limited insurance competition make this assistance particularly meaningful for residents.
- Premium assistance for underinsured patients
- Copay and cost-sharing assistance
- Disease-specific funds for many cancer types
- Online application available
Who: Underinsured cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation — Co-Pay Relief
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Patient Advocate Foundation offers direct financial assistance through their Co-Pay Relief program for insured patients struggling with co-pays and cost-sharing for cancer treatments and medications. Their case managers also help with insurance appeals, employment issues, and debt crisis situations caused by a cancer diagnosis. They serve all Alaska residents by phone.
- Co-pay relief for insured cancer patients
- Insurance appeal assistance
- Employment and debt crisis case management
- Toll-free: 1-800-532-5274
Who: Insured cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Joe’s House — Lodging Near Cancer Centers
📍 Statewide (for travel to treatment centers)
Joe’s House is a nationwide online lodging guide that helps cancer patients and families find reduced-rate or free lodging near treatment centers. For Alaskans traveling to Seattle, Portland, or other lower 48 cities for specialized treatment, Joe’s House helps locate affordable accommodations close to major cancer centers. The website is searchable by treatment center location.
- Searchable database of lodging near cancer centers
- Reduced-rate hotels and free housing options
- Covers Seattle, Portland, Houston, and other destinations
- Free to use
Who: Cancer patients and families traveling for treatment
Cost: Free to search; lodging rates vary
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Imerman Angels matches cancer patients with “Mentor Angels” — survivors who have been through the same cancer type. In a state as geographically isolated as Alaska, having a one-on-one peer mentor available by phone can be genuinely lifesaving for morale. Matches are made by cancer type, age, and life circumstance, and the service is available to anyone in Alaska.
- One-on-one peer mentor matching by cancer type
- Available by phone or video for remote Alaskans
- Matches for patients, caregivers, and previvors
- Free and confidential
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and previvors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NeedyMeds
📍 Statewide (online)
NeedyMeds is a comprehensive online database of patient assistance programs for prescription medications, including cancer drugs. In Alaska, where medication costs are already elevated due to the cost of living, this database helps patients find manufacturer programs, foundation grants, and discount options. Searchable by medication name — simple and free to use.
- Database of patient assistance programs
- Free drug discount card
- Searchable by medication name
- Links to manufacturer assistance programs
Who: Anyone who cannot afford prescriptions
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska 2-1-1
📍 Statewide (phone)
Alaska 2-1-1 is the statewide health and human services helpline. Trained specialists can connect you with local assistance programs including food banks, utility assistance, housing help, and transportation — programs that cancer patients often need urgently but don’t know exist. Available by phone 24/7 and through the online database. This is often the best first call for patients who don’t know where to start.
- Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Alaska
- 24/7 availability
- Covers all types of social service needs
- Can search by region and need type
Who: All Alaskans with any social service need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Legal Services Corporation
📍 Statewide (multiple offices)
Alaska Legal Services provides free civil legal help to low-income Alaskans, including help with issues that arise during cancer: insurance denials, employment discrimination, disability benefits appeals, housing problems, and advance directives. With offices in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and other communities, they serve patients across the state.
- Insurance denial appeals
- Disability and SSDI applications
- Employment rights and FMLA guidance
- Advance directives and estate planning
Who: Low-income Alaskans with civil legal needs
Cost: Free for eligible clients
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska VA Healthcare System — Cancer Care
📍 Statewide (Anchorage VA; telehealth statewide)
The Alaska VA Medical Center in Anchorage provides oncology services and coordinates care for veterans across the state. For veterans in rural areas, the VA’s robust telehealth program allows many appointments and follow-ups to happen remotely. The VA also helps eligible veterans access community care providers when VA facilities cannot meet specialized cancer treatment needs.
- Oncology services at Anchorage VA Medical Center
- Telehealth appointments statewide
- Community care referrals for specialized needs
- Travel pay for eligible veterans
Who: Eligible veterans
Cost: Covered by VA benefits
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Reach
📍 Statewide (online)
Family Reach helps cancer patients navigate the financial side of a diagnosis through their Financial Treatment Program. They provide direct grants for household expenses — rent, utilities, car payments — and financial planners help families create a plan to stay stable during treatment. In Alaska, where costs are already high and treatment often requires travel, keeping household finances intact is critical.
- Direct grants for household bills
- Financial planning for cancer patients
- Resource navigation assistance
- Online application
Who: Cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Good Days (formerly Chronic Disease Fund)
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Good Days provides copay assistance, premium assistance, travel assistance, and help with out-of-pocket costs for cancer patients. Their disease-specific funds cover many cancer types. For Alaskans with insurance who still face crushing out-of-pocket costs, this can close the gap between what insurance covers and what treatment actually costs.
- Copay assistance for cancer treatments
- Insurance premium help
- Travel assistance to treatment
- Multiple disease-specific funds
Who: Insured patients with financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Livestrong Foundation
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
Livestrong provides free, confidential one-on-one support by phone and online, helping cancer patients and survivors navigate insurance, find financial resources, manage treatment-related challenges, and connect with their community. Their navigation services are especially useful for Alaskans who may not have a robust local support infrastructure and need help knowing where to turn.
- Free one-on-one cancer navigation
- Fertility preservation information and resources
- Clinical trial search assistance
- Helpline: 1-855-220-7777
Who: Cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Care
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
CancerCare provides free professional counseling, support groups, educational workshops, and limited financial assistance to anyone affected by cancer, regardless of where they live. Their telephone and online services are perfect for Alaskans in remote areas. Oncology social workers are available by phone and their online support groups run on a consistent schedule.
- Free professional oncology social worker counseling
- Telephone and online support groups
- Educational workshops on cancer topics
- Limited financial assistance for treatment costs
Who: Anyone affected by cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Caregiver Action Network
📍 Statewide (online)
In Alaska, where caregivers may be managing not just illness but also extreme travel logistics, isolation, and the financial strain of repeated trips to Anchorage or Seattle, the Caregiver Action Network’s online resources and peer support communities offer an important outlet. They provide education, peer connections, and advocacy resources specifically designed for family caregivers.
- Online peer support community for caregivers
- Educational resources on caregiving challenges
- Caregiver Help Desk: 1-855-227-3640
- Wellness and self-care resources
Who: Family caregivers of cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
RxAssist
📍 Statewide (online)
RxAssist is a comprehensive database of pharmaceutical patient assistance programs. Search by drug name to find manufacturer programs, foundations, and government programs that can cover cancer medication costs. In Alaska, where medications are often more expensive and supply chains add cost, this tool helps patients find programs they may not know exist.
- Searchable database by medication name
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs
- State and federal program information
- Free to use
Who: Anyone struggling with cancer medication costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
The Ulman Foundation
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
The Ulman Foundation focuses on young adults with cancer, providing patient navigation, scholarships, housing near treatment centers, and a supportive online community. Their Cancer to 5K program helps survivors rebuild physical fitness. For young Alaskans navigating cancer far from home — whether in Anchorage or traveling to Seattle — Ulman offers connections and concrete help.
- Young adult patient navigation
- Scholarships for young adult survivors
- Cancer to 5K fitness program
- Housing support near major treatment centers
Who: Young adults ages 15-39 with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Zero — The End of Prostate Cancer
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
ZERO provides support for prostate cancer patients and families through peer mentoring, online support groups, educational programs, and free PSA testing events. For Alaskan men, especially in communities with limited specialty care, ZERO’s remote resources offer an accessible way to connect with others and get information about managing the side effects of treatment.
- Peer mentoring for prostate cancer patients
- Online support groups
- Educational resources for patients and families
- Free PSA testing event information
Who: Prostate cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
OCRA offers a helpline staffed by trained volunteers, a peer-to-peer mentorship program, and online support groups for ovarian cancer patients and survivors. Their Survivors Teaching Students program and robust online community ensure that even Alaskans in remote areas have access to an informed and supportive network.
- Ovarian cancer helpline
- Peer mentorship program
- Online support groups
- Educational resources on treatment and trials
Who: Ovarian cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Anchorage & Mat-Su Valley
The Anchorage area is where the vast majority of Alaska’s cancer treatment takes place. These organizations are based in or primarily serve the Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna Valley communities.
The Forget Me Not Fund — Alaska Cancer Patient Support
📍 Anchorage area
The Forget Me Not Fund is an Alaska-based organization that provides financial grants to cancer patients in the state. They focus on helping with practical needs that arise during treatment: transportation to appointments, utility bills, and everyday expenses that become overwhelming when income drops and medical costs rise. Their local focus means they understand what Alaskans actually face.
- Financial grants for Alaska cancer patients
- Transportation assistance
- Utility and household expense help
- Local Alaska organization with Alaskan focus
Who: Alaska cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ronald McDonald House — Anchorage (RMHC Alaska)
📍 Anchorage
RMHC Alaska provides free or low-cost lodging in Anchorage for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at area hospitals, including pediatric cancer patients. For families who have traveled from rural Alaska to Anchorage for a child’s cancer treatment, having a place to stay close to the hospital is both a practical and emotional lifeline. Rooms are available on a sliding scale based on ability to pay.
- Free or low-cost lodging near Anchorage hospitals
- Home-like environment for families
- Meals and amenities provided
- Sliding scale or no cost for qualifying families
Who: Families of pediatric patients receiving treatment in Anchorage
Cost: Free to low-cost
Phone: 2-1-1
Food Bank of Alaska
📍 Anchorage (statewide network)
The Food Bank of Alaska distributes food through a statewide network of partner agencies including food pantries, meal programs, and community organizations. For cancer patients dealing with reduced income, increased expenses, and the practical difficulties of eating well during treatment, food assistance can make a significant difference. Use the online locator to find the closest distribution point.
- Food distribution through partner agencies statewide
- Online locator for nearest food pantry
- No income verification required at many locations
- Special boxes available for seniors and families
Who: All Alaskans facing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Anchorage Cancer Resource Center (Providence)
📍 Anchorage
Providence Alaska Medical Center’s cancer program includes dedicated patient resource services to help patients and families navigate diagnosis, treatment options, and support services. Social workers embedded in the oncology program connect patients with financial aid, transportation resources, counseling, and community organizations. This is often the best first stop for newly diagnosed patients at Providence.
- Oncology social worker navigation
- Financial assistance referrals
- Transportation and lodging coordination
- Support group referrals and counseling
Who: Cancer patients receiving care at Providence Alaska
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Catholic Social Services of Alaska
📍 Anchorage (serves statewide)
Catholic Social Services provides emergency financial assistance, food programs, refugee services, and counseling to Alaskans in need — services open to people of all faiths. For cancer patients in financial crisis, their emergency assistance program can help with rent, utilities, and basic needs. Counseling services are also available to patients and family members dealing with the emotional burden of a diagnosis.
- Emergency financial assistance for basic needs
- Food pantry and meal programs
- Counseling for individuals and families
- Open to all, regardless of faith
Who: Alaskans in need, regardless of faith
Cost: Free for qualifying individuals
Phone: 2-1-1
Fairbanks & Interior Alaska
Fairbanks is Alaska’s second-largest city and serves as the hub for Interior Alaska patients. These resources are based in or primarily serve the Fairbanks, North Pole, and Interior communities.
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital — Cancer Care Support Services
📍 Fairbanks
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital provides oncology services for Interior Alaska patients, including a social work team that helps with financial concerns, transportation, and connection to community resources. Patients who would otherwise need to travel to Anchorage can often receive many components of their care in Fairbanks, and the social workers help navigate what is and isn’t available locally.
- Oncology social worker support
- Financial assistance navigation
- Transportation and lodging coordination
- Connection to Interior Alaska community resources
Who: Cancer patients receiving care at Fairbanks Memorial
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Fairbanks Community Food Bank
📍 Fairbanks
The Fairbanks Community Food Bank distributes food to Interior Alaska residents facing food insecurity. For cancer patients managing reduced income, high medical costs, and the physical difficulty of maintaining adequate nutrition during treatment, food pantry access can be critical. The food bank works with community partners to reach people across the Interior.
- Free food distribution to Interior Alaska residents
- Multiple distribution sites and times
- Collaboration with community partners for home delivery
- No eligibility requirements at most distributions
Who: Interior Alaska residents facing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living (IACNVL)
📍 Fairbanks
While primarily focused on domestic violence, IACNVL provides emergency shelter and crisis services that can benefit cancer patients who are also dealing with unsafe home situations — something that stress and illness can sometimes precipitate. They also connect clients to a broad network of social services for financial help, housing, and community support in the Fairbanks area.
- Emergency shelter and crisis services
- Connections to social services network
- Fairbanks-area resource navigation
- Confidential support
Who: Fairbanks-area residents in crisis or need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Southeast Alaska (Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka)
Southeast Alaska’s panhandle communities face their own version of Alaska’s geographic isolation — towns accessible primarily by air or ferry. These resources serve the Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, and surrounding communities.
Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC)
📍 Southeast Alaska (Juneau, Sitka, and communities throughout the panhandle)
SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium that serves Alaska Native and non-Native patients throughout Southeast Alaska. Their system includes Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital in Sitka and clinics across the panhandle. SEARHC has a cancer care program with patient navigators who coordinate travel, connect patients to financial assistance, and help navigate treatment decisions from remote Southeast communities.
- Cancer care coordination throughout Southeast Alaska
- Patient travel assistance for specialist access
- Community health workers and navigators
- Telehealth services for remote panhandle communities
Who: Southeast Alaska residents, with priority for Alaska Native patients
Cost: Varies by service and eligibility
Phone: 2-1-1
Bartlett Regional Hospital — Juneau Social Services
📍 Juneau
Bartlett Regional Hospital serves as the primary medical facility for Juneau and surrounding communities. Their social services team works with cancer patients on financial assistance, transportation coordination (including ferry and air connections), and connection to Southeast Alaska community support organizations. For Juneau patients who need to travel to Anchorage or Seattle for higher-level care, Bartlett’s social workers help plan that transition.
- Hospital social worker navigation services
- Financial assistance referrals
- Transportation coordination for out-of-town care
- Community resource connections
Who: Cancer patients receiving care at Bartlett Regional
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Southeast Alaska Food Bank (Ketchikan)
📍 Ketchikan and surrounding communities
The Southeast Alaska Food Bank in Ketchikan distributes food to families facing food insecurity throughout the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. For cancer patients in Ketchikan dealing with reduced income and high medical expenses, free food from the food bank can free up limited resources for treatment-related costs. Open to anyone in need, no questions asked.
- Free food distribution in Ketchikan area
- No eligibility verification required
- Regular distribution schedule
- Connections to other social services
Who: Ketchikan area residents facing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pediatric & Young Adult Cancer
Children and young adults with cancer in Alaska face particular challenges — not only the illness itself but the need to travel to Anchorage or Seattle for specialized pediatric oncology. These organizations focus on young patients and their families.
Alaska Children’s Services — Medical Care Support
📍 Statewide (Anchorage-based)
Alaska Children’s Services works with children and families who need intensive support, including help accessing medical care. For families dealing with a child’s cancer diagnosis, they can assist with navigation, community connections, and coordination of services that help the whole family cope with the demands of treatment — especially for families who have relocated to Anchorage for extended treatment periods.
- Support for children and families in medical crisis
- Case management and service coordination
- Community resource navigation
- Statewide reach with Anchorage base
Who: Children and families facing serious illness
Cost: Free for qualifying families
Phone: 2-1-1
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
📍 Statewide (online)
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation provides travel grants for childhood cancer patients who need to travel for treatment — directly relevant for Alaska families who must fly to Seattle or other lower 48 cities for specialized pediatric oncology. Their Travel For Care grant program can offset the substantial airfare costs that Alaskan families face when a child’s treatment is unavailable in state.
- Travel grants for childhood cancer treatment
- Grant amounts up to $500 per trip
- Online application
- For families of children with cancer under 21
Who: Families of children under 21 with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
📍 Statewide (online)
For Alaska families dealing with a child’s brain tumor diagnosis, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation provides educational resources, a patient registry, financial aid, and emotional support. Their Family Grant Program provides funds to help cover non-medical expenses related to treatment. In Alaska, where brain tumor specialists require significant travel to access, their resources and financial support can be especially valuable.
- Family grants for treatment-related expenses
- Educational resources and parent guides
- Online support communities
- Research information and clinical trial connections
Who: Families of children with brain tumors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stupid Cancer
📍 Statewide (online and events)
Stupid Cancer focuses on the young adult cancer experience — ages roughly 18 to 39 — with an irreverent, community-driven approach. Their online community, OMG Cancer Summit, and podcast help young Alaskans with cancer feel less alone. The isolation of being young with cancer is intense anywhere; in Alaska, where geographic isolation compounds the experience, finding this community online can matter a great deal.
- Online community for young adult cancer patients
- Podcast and educational content
- Annual OMG Cancer Summit
- Social media community and peer connections
Who: Young adults ages 18-39 with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Native & Rural Alaska Resources
Alaska Native communities experience cancer health disparities, and rural Alaskans face access barriers unlike anywhere else in the country. These organizations specifically address those unique circumstances.
Southcentral Foundation — Nuka System of Care
📍 Anchorage and Southcentral Alaska
Southcentral Foundation’s Nuka System of Care serves Alaska Native and American Indian people in Southcentral Alaska with a whole-person, relationship-based model. Their integrated care includes cancer navigation, behavioral health, and social services support. SCF’s approach focuses on customer-owners and their families — not just the medical problem — making it uniquely suited to supporting cancer patients through the whole experience.
- Integrated cancer care navigation
- Behavioral and mental health services
- Social services support coordination
- Culturally appropriate whole-person care
Who: Alaska Native and American Indian people in Southcentral Alaska
Cost: Covered by IHS, Medicaid, or insurance for eligible patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center
📍 Statewide (Fairbanks-based)
The Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center provides advocacy, support, and resources for Alaska Native women facing a range of challenges. For Alaska Native women dealing with cancer — especially gynecological cancers where Alaska Native women face elevated rates — this organization provides culturally grounded support, resource navigation, and connections to community services across the state.
- Advocacy and support for Alaska Native women
- Resource navigation and referrals
- Culturally appropriate support services
- Statewide reach through community partnerships
Who: Alaska Native women and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska Tribal Health Compact — Patient Travel
📍 Statewide (tribal programs)
Alaska’s tribal health system, funded through Indian Health Service and administered through the Alaska Tribal Health Compact, includes patient travel programs that help eligible Alaska Natives get to medical treatment. For cancer patients in remote villages who must fly to Anchorage or beyond for treatment, understanding and accessing these travel benefits is essential. Contact your regional tribal health organization or IHS facility to learn about your specific travel benefits.
- Patient travel benefits for eligible Alaska Natives
- Escort benefits for patients needing accompaniment
- Coordination through regional tribal health organizations
- Contact local IHS or tribal facility to apply
Who: Alaska Native and American Indian patients
Cost: Free for eligible patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Disease-Specific Support
National organizations focused on specific cancer types that serve Alaska residents through phone and online programs.
Breast Cancer Research Foundation — Patient Resources
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
BCRF funds research and connects breast cancer patients with resources including educational materials, clinical trial information, and support community connections. For Alaskan women newly diagnosed with breast cancer, their website is a comprehensive starting point for understanding treatment options and finding second opinion guidance before committing to a treatment plan in or out of state.
- Breast cancer educational resources
- Clinical trial information
- Second opinion guidance
- Online patient community connections
Who: Breast cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance offers a free helpline, online support groups, educational resources, and a Blue Star peer mentor program. Alaska has elevated colorectal cancer rates relative to national averages, and screening rates in rural communities remain low. For patients and families dealing with a colorectal diagnosis, the Alliance’s helpline and peer mentors provide specialized support regardless of location.
- Free helpline: 1-877-422-2030
- Blue Star peer mentor program
- Online support groups
- Educational resources on treatment options
Who: Colorectal cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lung Cancer Research Foundation
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation provides support, education, and community for lung cancer patients and their families. Their stigma-free approach — support regardless of smoking history — is particularly important in communities where patients may feel shame. Their online resources and helpline are accessible from anywhere in Alaska, including remote communities with only satellite internet.
- Lung cancer support and education
- Connection to clinical trials
- Online community and resources
- Stigma-free support regardless of cause
Who: Lung cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
The LLS provides free information, financial assistance, and support to blood cancer patients and their families. Their First Connection peer mentor program, online support groups, and financial assistance for treatment costs are all accessible to Alaskans by phone and online. Their Information Specialists can help patients understand diagnoses, treatment options, and clinical trials — a valuable resource given Alaska’s limited local hematology-oncology specialists.
- Information Specialist line: 1-800-955-4572
- Financial assistance for blood cancer patients
- First Connection peer mentor program
- Online support groups and patient education
Who: Blood cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN)
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
PanCAN operates a patient services program that provides free case management, clinical trial matching, financial assistance information, and one-on-one support for pancreatic cancer patients and their families. Given that pancreatic cancer often requires highly specialized care that may not be available in Alaska, PanCAN’s navigation services — which can help identify the best treatment centers and programs nationally — are especially important.
- Free case management and navigation
- Clinical trial matching service
- Financial assistance resource directory
- Patient Services: 1-877-272-6226
Who: Pancreatic cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Additional Support Resources
American Cancer Society – Alaska
📍 Anchorage, AK
ACS provides Road To Recovery rides, Hope Lodge lodging near Seattle treatment centers, and 24/7 support for Alaska cancer patients.
- Road To Recovery rides
- Hope Lodge lodging (Seattle)
- 24/7 helpline support
Who: Cancer patients & caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 227-2345
CancerCare – Alaska
📍 Serving all Alaska regions
Free professional counseling, support groups, and financial grants for Alaska cancer patients and their families.
- Professional counseling
- Financial assistance grants
- Online support groups
Who: Cancer patients & families
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 813-4673
Alaska 211
📍 Statewide Alaska
Dial 2-1-1 to access cancer support, food, housing, and emergency resources across Alaska.
- 24/7 statewide helpline
- Local resource referrals
- Multilingual services
Who: All Alaska residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation
📍 National – serves Alaska
Case management and financial aid for Alaska cancer patients facing insurance denials and unmanageable costs.
- Case management
- Co-pay relief fund
- Insurance appeals support
Who: Insured patients with hardship
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 532-5274
Alaska Medicaid
📍 Juneau, AK
State Medicaid covering cancer treatment, chemotherapy, and prescriptions for low-income Alaska residents.
- Cancer treatment coverage
- Prescription drug benefits
- Cancer screening coverage
Who: Low-income Alaska residents
Cost: Low/no cost
Phone: (800) 780-9972
Food Bank of Alaska
📍 Anchorage, AK
Statewide food bank providing food distributions for Alaska cancer patients through 300+ partner agencies.
- Statewide food distribution
- Emergency food boxes
- Mobile food pantry
Who: Food-insecure Alaskans
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 272-3663
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Pacific Northwest
📍 Serving Alaska
LLS provides co-pay assistance, navigation, and blood cancer support for Alaska patients.
- Co-pay assistance
- Patient navigation
- Support group referrals
Who: Blood cancer patients
Cost: Free services
Phone: (800) 955-4572
HealthWell Foundation
📍 National – serves Alaska
Grants for insurance premiums, co-pays, and deductibles for underinsured Alaska cancer patients.
- Premium assistance grants
- Co-pay support
- Deductible assistance
Who: Underinsured patients
Cost: Free grants
Phone: (800) 675-8416
PAN Foundation – Alaska
📍 National – serves Alaska
Financial assistance for cancer treatment costs and premiums for Alaska residents with serious diagnoses.
- Disease-specific grants
- Premium assistance
- Medication cost help
Who: Underinsured cancer patients
Cost: Free grants
Phone: (866) 316-7263
NeedyMeds – Alaska Drug Assistance
📍 National – serves Alaska
Free database of patient assistance programs and discount drug cards for Alaska cancer patients.
- Drug PAP database
- Discount drug card
- Diagnosis-based assistance
Who: Uninsured/underinsured patients
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 503-6897
Air Charity Network – Alaska
📍 National – serves Alaska
Coordinates free air transportation for Alaska cancer patients who must travel to Seattle or other centers for treatment.
- Free flights to treatment
- Volunteer pilot network
- Long-distance coordination
Who: Patients needing air travel
Cost: Free
Phone: (877) 621-7177
4th Angel Mentoring – Alaska
📍 National – serves Alaska
Telephone peer mentoring matching Alaska cancer patients with trained cancer survivor volunteers.
- Phone-based mentoring
- Diagnosis-matched mentors
- Caregiver mentoring
Who: Cancer patients & caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: (866) 520-3197
Cleaning for a Reason – Alaska
📍 Statewide Alaska
Free professional home cleaning for Alaska cancer patients undergoing active cancer treatment.
- 2 free cleanings
- Certified local cleaners
- Simple application
Who: Cancer patients in treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: (877) 337-3348
Joe’s House – Alaska Lodging
📍 National – serves Alaska
Online lodging guide for Alaska cancer patients traveling to Seattle-area or Anchorage treatment centers.
- Discounted hotel search
- Near Providence Anchorage
- Near Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
Who: Patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Discounted rates
Phone: (877) 563-7468
Providence Alaska Medical Center – Cancer
📍 Anchorage, AK
Alaska’s largest hospital providing comprehensive cancer care including oncology, radiation, and navigation in Anchorage.
- Comprehensive oncology
- Radiation therapy
- Patient navigation
Who: Alaska cancer patients
Cost: Insurance/sliding scale
Phone: (907) 562-2211
Alaska Native Medical Center – Cancer
📍 Anchorage, AK
Specialized cancer care for Alaska Native and American Indian patients through the ANMC and tribal health programs.
- Culturally responsive care
- Tribal health coordination
- Traditional healing integration
Who: Alaska Native & AI cancer patients
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 563-2662
Alaska Regional Hospital – Oncology
📍 Anchorage, AK
Cancer treatment services at Alaska Regional including medical oncology, chemotherapy, and supportive care.
- Medical oncology
- Chemotherapy infusion
- Supportive care services
Who: Anchorage-area cancer patients
Cost: Insurance/sliding scale
Phone: (907) 276-1131
Alaska Cancer Program
📍 Anchorage, AK
State program offering free breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings for eligible uninsured Alaskans.
- Free breast/cervical screening
- Colorectal screening
- Patient navigation
Who: Uninsured/low-income Alaskans
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 269-3466
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital – Cancer
📍 Fairbanks, AK
Cancer care services in interior Alaska including oncology, infusion, and navigation at Fairbanks Memorial.
- Medical oncology
- Infusion center
- Patient navigation
Who: Interior Alaska cancer patients
Cost: Insurance/sliding scale
Phone: (907) 452-8181
Bartlett Regional Hospital – Cancer
📍 Juneau, AK
Cancer services for southeast Alaska including oncology consultations and infusion at Bartlett Regional.
- Oncology consultation
- Infusion therapy
- Care coordination
Who: Southeast Alaska cancer patients
Cost: Insurance/sliding scale
Phone: (907) 796-8900
Mat-Su Regional Medical Center – Cancer
📍 Palmer, AK
Cancer care services for the Matanuska-Susitna Valley including oncology and infusion therapy.
- Medical oncology
- Infusion services
- Specialist referrals
Who: Mat-Su Valley cancer patients
Cost: Insurance/sliding scale
Phone: (907) 861-6000
Livestrong at the YMCA – Anchorage
📍 Anchorage, AK
Free 12-week fitness program for adult cancer survivors at the Anchorage YMCA.
- 12-week fitness program
- Certified cancer trainers
- Peer support community
Who: Adult cancer survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 563-3211
Alaska Legal Services Corporation
📍 Anchorage & Fairbanks, AK
Free legal help for low-income Alaska cancer patients facing insurance denials, disability, and housing issues.
- Insurance appeal help
- Disability benefits advocacy
- Housing legal rights
Who: Low-income Alaska residents
Cost: Free
Phone: (888) 478-2572
Meals on Wheels – Anchorage
📍 Anchorage, AK
Home-delivered nutritious meals for homebound cancer patients in Anchorage to support treatment nutrition.
- Daily meal delivery
- Nutrition-focused menus
- Wellness check visits
Who: Homebound Anchorage adults
Cost: Free/low cost
Phone: (907) 278-6000
Alaska Hospice and Palliative Care
📍 Statewide Alaska
Statewide hospice and palliative care coordination for terminal cancer patients across Alaska’s vast geography.
- Home-based hospice
- Care coordination
- Grief counseling
Who: Terminal cancer patients & families
Cost: Medicare/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 561-5322
Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority
📍 Anchorage, AK
Funds mental health and behavioral programs for Alaska cancer patients experiencing depression, anxiety, or trauma.
- Mental health program funding
- Community resource grants
- Behavioral health coordination
Who: Cancer patients with mental health needs
Cost: Varied
Phone: (907) 269-7960
Catholic Social Services Alaska
📍 Anchorage, AK
Emergency financial aid, food, counseling, and housing help for cancer patients in the Anchorage area.
- Emergency financial aid
- Food pantry
- Counseling services
Who: Alaska residents in need
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 276-5590
Southeast Alaska Regional Health – Cancer
📍 Sitka, AK
Tribal health system providing cancer care, prevention, and navigation for communities in southeast Alaska.
- Tribal cancer care
- Prevention programs
- Patient navigation
Who: Southeast Alaska tribal communities
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 966-8700
Southcentral Foundation – Cancer Support
📍 Anchorage, AK
Alaska Native-owned health system offering cancer care, behavioral health, and traditional wellness for Anchorage patients.
- Cancer care coordination
- Behavioral health services
- Traditional wellness integration
Who: Alaska Native patients in Anchorage
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 729-4955
Tanana Chiefs Conference Health – Cancer
📍 Fairbanks, AK
Tribal health consortium providing cancer care and navigation for interior Alaska Native communities.
- Tribal cancer care
- Patient navigation
- Cultural support services
Who: Interior Alaska Native patients
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 452-8251
Alaska SNAP Food Benefits
📍 Statewide Alaska
Monthly food assistance for low-income Alaska cancer patients through the federal SNAP nutrition program.
- Monthly grocery benefits
- Online application
- SNAP outreach workers
Who: Low-income Alaska households
Cost: Free benefits
Phone: (800) 478-7778
Denali KidCare – Children’s Cancer
📍 Juneau, AK
Alaska’s children’s health insurance program providing cancer care coverage for uninsured children under 19.
- Cancer treatment coverage
- Prescription benefits
- Specialty care referrals
Who: Uninsured children with cancer
Cost: Free/low cost
Phone: (888) 318-8890
Volunteers of America Alaska
📍 Anchorage, AK
Emergency financial aid, housing support, and case management for cancer patients facing hardship in Alaska.
- Emergency financial aid
- Housing assistance
- Case management
Who: Alaska residents in crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 339-7600
Alaska LIHEAP – Energy Assistance
📍 Juneau, AK
Energy bill assistance for low-income Alaska cancer patients during the harsh Alaska winters.
- Heating bill assistance
- Crisis energy help
- Weatherization referrals
Who: Low-income Alaska households
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 470-3058
National Children’s Cancer Society – Alaska
📍 National – serves Alaska
Financial and emotional support for Alaska families with children undergoing cancer treatment.
- Family financial grants
- Lodging assistance
- Emotional support resources
Who: Families with children with cancer
Cost: Free grants
Phone: (800) 532-6459
Alaska Veterans Affairs – Cancer
📍 Anchorage, AK
VA cancer care, disability compensation, and veteran benefits for Alaska veterans diagnosed with cancer.
- VA oncology care
- Disability compensation
- Veteran benefits counseling
Who: Alaska veterans with cancer
Cost: VA covered
Phone: (907) 257-4700
Maniilaq Association Health – Cancer
📍 Kotzebue, AK
Tribal health services for cancer patients in northwestern Alaska, including navigation and traditional healing resources.
- Tribal cancer navigation
- Traditional healing support
- Remote patient coordination
Who: Northwest Alaska tribal communities
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 442-7322
Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation
📍 Dillingham, AK
Tribal health corporation providing cancer care and prevention services for southwest Alaska communities.
- Cancer care coordination
- Prevention outreach
- Patient navigation
Who: Southwest Alaska tribal communities
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 842-5201
Alaska Disability Law Center
📍 Anchorage, AK
Free legal advocacy for Alaska cancer patients with disabilities in employment, housing, and benefits matters.
- Disability rights legal aid
- Employment discrimination
- Benefits appeals
Who: Cancer patients with disabilities
Cost: Free
Phone: (800) 478-1234
Cancer Support Community – Alaska
📍 Anchorage, AK
Free support groups, counseling, and wellness programs for Alaska cancer patients and their loved ones.
- Support groups
- Free counseling
- Wellness programs
Who: All cancer patients & families
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 245-0550
Anchorage Community Mental Health – Cancer
📍 Anchorage, AK
Mental health counseling and crisis services for cancer patients and caregivers in the Anchorage area.
- Individual therapy
- Crisis support
- Telehealth options
Who: Cancer patients & caregivers
Cost: Sliding scale
Phone: (907) 563-1000
Alaska Caregiver Alliance
📍 Anchorage, AK
Resources, respite support, and training for family caregivers of cancer patients across Alaska.
- Caregiver training
- Respite care coordination
- Support group network
Who: Family caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 277-7033
Alaska Native Brotherhood/Sisterhood – Cancer Aid
📍 Statewide Alaska
Cultural and financial support for Alaska Native cancer patients through ANB/ANS tribal networks statewide.
- Cultural cancer support
- Tribal financial aid
- Navigation to IHS services
Who: Alaska Native cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Covenant House Alaska – Cancer Youth
📍 Anchorage, AK
Support for homeless youth with cancer in Alaska, including emergency shelter, case management, and health referrals.
- Emergency youth shelter
- Health care referrals
- Case management
Who: Homeless youth with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 272-1255
Cook Inlet Tribal Council – Cancer Resources
📍 Anchorage, AK
Wrap-around social services and cancer navigation for Alaska Native patients in the Cook Inlet region.
- Social services coordination
- Cancer navigation
- Behavioral health support
Who: Cook Inlet area Alaska Natives
Cost: Free/IHS covered
Phone: (907) 793-3600
Kodiak Area Native Association – Cancer
📍 Kodiak, AK
Tribal health services and cancer navigation for Alaska Native communities on Kodiak Island.
- Tribal cancer navigation
- Patient support services
- Traditional wellness
Who: Kodiak Island tribal communities
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 486-9800
Mount Edgecumbe Hospital Cancer – SEARHC
📍 Sitka, AK
IHS-funded cancer services at Mount Edgecumbe Hospital for southeast Alaska Native patients.
- Cancer care coordination
- IHS-funded services
- Patient navigation
Who: Southeast Alaska Native patients
Cost: IHS/Medicaid covered
Phone: (907) 966-8700
Alaska Works Partnership – Cancer Workforce
📍 Anchorage, AK
Job retraining and employment support for Alaska cancer survivors returning to the workforce.
- Job retraining programs
- Career counseling
- Workplace accommodation help
Who: Cancer survivors seeking employment
Cost: Free/low cost
Phone: (907) 277-4454
Salvation Army Alaska – Cancer Aid
📍 Anchorage, AK
Emergency financial assistance, food, and utility help for Alaska cancer patients in financial crisis.
- Emergency financial aid
- Food pantry
- Utility assistance
Who: Alaska residents in crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 276-2515
Three Rivers Foundation – Alaska Cancer
📍 Palmer, AK
Community grants and financial assistance for Mat-Su Valley cancer patients and their families.
- Patient financial grants
- Community program funding
- Resource coordination
Who: Mat-Su Valley cancer patients
Cost: Free grants
Phone: (907) 746-0700
Alaska Native Cancer Survivors Network
📍 Anchorage, AK
Peer support network for Alaska Native cancer survivors offering culturally grounded mentoring and wellness programs.
- Peer support network
- Culturally grounded mentoring
- Traditional healing support
Who: Alaska Native cancer survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alaska 4-H Cancer Family Program
📍 Statewide Alaska
Youth development and support programs for children of cancer patients through Alaska Cooperative Extension.
- Youth support programs
- Family wellness activities
- Camp programs for cancer families
Who: Children of cancer patients
Cost: Free/low cost
Phone: (907) 474-7246
Southeast Alaska Independent Living
📍 Juneau, AK
Independent living support and peer advocacy for southeast Alaska cancer patients with significant disabilities.
- Independent living skills
- Peer advocacy
- Benefits counseling
Who: Cancer patients with disabilities
Cost: Free
Phone: (907) 586-4920
Fairbanks Native Association – Cancer
📍 Fairbanks, AK
Tribal social services and cancer navigation for Alaska Native patients in the Fairbanks area.
- Tribal cancer navigation
- Social services coordination
- Cultural support
Who: Interior Alaska Native patients
Cost: Free/IHS covered
Phone: (907) 452-1648
Alaska Cancer Survivors Network
📍 Anchorage, AK
Statewide peer support and resource connection for Alaska cancer survivors across urban and rural communities.
- Survivor peer support
- Statewide resource network
- Cultural wellness integration
Who: Alaska cancer survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1