Cancer Support Resources in New Jersey
New Jersey has one of the highest cancer incidence rates in the nation, driven by a dense population, a history of industrial and chemical manufacturing, and urban health disparities that persist despite the state’s overall wealth. A cancer diagnosis in New Jersey comes with a specific set of challenges — and navigating the resources available to address them requires knowing where to look.
New Jersey’s industrial legacy is significant. Decades of chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, pharmaceutical production, and heavy industry have left environmental contamination in communities across the state. New Jersey has more Superfund sites per square mile than any other state, and the health consequences are not evenly distributed. Communities near industrial sites — particularly in Essex, Union, Hudson, and Middlesex counties — show elevated rates of certain cancers tied to environmental exposure. Residents in these areas dealing with cancer diagnoses may be navigating not just treatment, but questions about environmental causation that carry legal and financial implications. Several organizations in this directory specialize in environmental cancer advocacy and legal support.
Urban communities in Newark, Camden, Trenton, and Paterson face persistent barriers to timely cancer screening and care that are not resolved by proximity to major medical centers. Rutgers Cancer Institute — New Jersey’s only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center — is in New Brunswick, accessible to patients across the state but not uniformly so. Newark, despite being home to major hospital systems, has cancer mortality rates that significantly exceed state averages in underserved neighborhoods. Insurance barriers, transportation challenges, and the practical difficulty of managing treatment while working hourly jobs are realities for many patients in these cities.
The cost of living in New Jersey is among the highest in the country, and that creates financial stress for cancer patients even when they have health insurance. Copays, deductibles, lost wages from treatment absences, and the high baseline cost of housing and daily living combine to place families in financial crisis during cancer treatment. Financial assistance programs — including state-funded programs, hospital charity care, and nonprofit grants — are heavily utilized in New Jersey and are well-represented in this directory.
New Jersey’s commuter culture adds logistical complexity to cancer treatment. Many residents commute to New York City for work, relying on NJ Transit trains and buses that run on fixed schedules. For patients who are still working during treatment, fitting chemotherapy appointments, radiation schedules, and follow-up visits around a commuter schedule is genuinely difficult. Employers vary in how accommodating they are, and employment protection and legal assistance are important resources for working cancer patients.
New Jersey has an extraordinary degree of demographic diversity — it is home to large South Asian, Latino, Black, East Asian, and Caribbean communities across the state. Language access, cultural competency, and community-specific outreach are important factors in how effectively cancer support reaches patients across these communities. South Jersey communities along the Shore and agricultural communities in Cumberland and Salem counties have different needs than the densely populated northeastern corridor.
Whether you are navigating care at Rutgers Cancer Institute, managing treatment at a community hospital in South Jersey, or supporting a loved one through a diagnosis — the listings below are a starting point. Resources are organized starting with statewide programs, then by region from North Jersey through the Shore and into South Jersey.
Find the Right Support
Financial Help
Support Groups
Caregiver
Transport & Lodging
Food
Legal
Pediatric
Veterans
Showing all 102 resources
Statewide Resources
These organizations serve all of New Jersey — by phone, online, or through regional offices. Start here if you are unsure where to look.
Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey — Patient Support Services
📍 New Brunswick (statewide outreach)
As New Jersey’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute provides far more than treatment. Their support services include oncology social workers, patient navigators, financial counseling, genetic counseling, and survivorship programs. They also coordinate clinical trial access across the state.
- Oncology social workers and patient navigators
- Financial counseling and assistance referrals
- Survivorship wellness programs
- Clinical trial navigation
Who: All cancer patients, with priority for those in the Rutgers Health system
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
American Cancer Society — New Jersey
📍 Statewide (multiple offices)
The ACS operates across New Jersey with free rides to treatment through Road to Recovery, a 24/7 helpline for cancer information and referrals in over 200 languages, online support communities, and connections to local programs. Their NJ-specific navigators understand the state’s healthcare landscape.
- 24/7 helpline: 1-800-227-2345
- Road to Recovery free transportation
- Support groups and online community
- Patient navigation and resource referrals
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
NJ Cancer Education & Early Detection (CEED) Program
📍 Statewide (through local health departments)
Funded by the NJ Department of Health, CEED provides free cancer screenings to uninsured and underinsured New Jersey residents. If cancer is detected, the program connects patients to treatment coverage through NJ FamilyCare. Screenings are delivered through local health departments and community partners across all 21 counties.
- Free breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate screenings
- NJ FamilyCare enrollment assistance after diagnosis
- Community health education and outreach
- Available in all 21 counties
Who: Uninsured/underinsured NJ residents meeting age and income guidelines
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community Central New Jersey
📍 Bedminster (serves statewide)
Part of the national Cancer Support Community network, CSC Central NJ offers a comprehensive menu of free programs: support groups, educational workshops, mind-body wellness classes, nutrition counseling, and children’s programs. Their professional staff includes licensed clinical social workers and registered dietitians.
- Support groups by cancer type, age, and role
- Mind-body wellness (yoga, meditation, tai chi)
- Nutrition counseling with registered dietitians
- Programs for children and teens of patients
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
CancerCare — New Jersey
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
CancerCare provides free professional counseling from licensed oncology social workers by phone, online, or in-person at their NJ locations. They also offer financial assistance grants for copays, transportation, and home care, plus diagnosis-specific support groups and educational workshops.
- Individual and group counseling (phone, online, in-person)
- Financial assistance grants
- Caregiver support programs
- Diagnosis-specific workshops
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved loved ones
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — New Jersey Chapter
📍 Statewide
LLS provides generous financial assistance for blood cancer patients including copay assistance that can cover thousands per year, travel aid, and clinical trial support. Their Information Specialists are available by phone to walk you through treatment options, connect you to peer support, and help with clinical trial matching.
- Copay assistance and travel aid
- First Connection peer-to-peer matching
- Clinical trial nurse navigators
- NJ-specific events and fundraising
Who: Blood cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone-based)
When your insurance denies a claim or you cannot afford your medication, PAF assigns a case manager to fight for you. They handle appeals, negotiate medical debt, and run copay relief funds. Especially valuable in NJ where managed care plans and out-of-network billing create constant headaches.
- Insurance denial appeals and arbitration
- Copay relief program (multiple disease funds)
- Medical debt crisis intervention
- NJ marketplace and Medicaid navigation
Who: Patients facing insurance barriers or financial hardship
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Triage Cancer — NJ Resources
📍 Statewide (online and phone)
Triage Cancer provides NJ-specific guides on health insurance navigation, disability benefits, FMLA/NJ Family Leave Insurance, workplace protections, and estate planning. Their materials break down complex legal topics into plain language for cancer patients and caregivers.
- NJ Family Leave Insurance guidance
- Health insurance navigation (marketplace, NJ FamilyCare)
- Employment rights during treatment
- Disability benefits and estate planning
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers navigating practical/legal issues
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Susan G. Komen — North Jersey
📍 Statewide
Komen provides direct financial assistance for breast cancer patients dealing with treatment costs and connects callers with trained specialists through their helpline. In NJ, they also fund community screening programs and patient navigation for underserved populations.
- Financial aid for breast cancer treatment expenses
- Patient navigation and treatment support
- Helpline: 1-877-465-6636 (English/Spanish)
- Community screening grants
Who: Breast cancer patients and those at elevated risk
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-877-465-6636
NJ 2-1-1 (United Way)
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in New Jersey to reach trained specialists who connect callers to local health and human services — including cancer support programs, transportation, food banks, utility assistance, and housing help. Available 24/7 in multiple languages.
- 24/7 phone-based referral service
- Multilingual operators
- Searchable online database of NJ services
- Connections to local programs by county
Who: Anyone in New Jersey needing social services
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid)
📍 Statewide
New Jersey’s Medicaid program covers cancer treatment, medications, and related services for eligible residents. If you are uninsured or underinsured and facing a cancer diagnosis, NJ FamilyCare can be a lifeline. Income limits are more generous than many states, and application assistance is available at hospitals statewide.
- Full coverage for cancer treatment
- Prescription drug coverage
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Application help at hospitals and community centers
Who: NJ residents meeting income guidelines
Cost: Free or low-cost depending on income
Phone: 2-1-1
Angel Flight Northeast — New Jersey
📍 Statewide (serves Northeast region)
Volunteer pilots donate their time and aircraft to fly cancer patients to treatment centers. For NJ patients needing specialized care at distant facilities, this eliminates the burden of long drives or expensive travel. A companion can fly with the patient at no charge.
- Free flights to treatment centers
- Volunteer pilots and aircraft
- Companion can fly with patient
- Serves the entire Northeast region
Who: Patients needing to travel for medical treatment who cannot afford or manage commercial travel
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cleaning for a Reason — NJ Partners
📍 Statewide (through partner cleaning services)
When you are going through chemotherapy, housekeeping becomes impossible. Cleaning for a Reason partners with local cleaning services across NJ to provide free housecleaning for women undergoing cancer treatment. Apply online; services typically last two months.
- Free housecleaning during treatment
- Typically two cleanings per month for two months
- Apply online with doctor verification
Who: Women currently undergoing cancer treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
The Pink Fund — NJ
📍 Statewide (online application)
The Pink Fund pays non-medical bills directly for breast cancer patients in active treatment who have lost income. They cover mortgage/rent, car payments, utilities, and insurance premiums — critical in NJ where housing costs are among the highest in the nation.
- Direct bill payment (rent, car, utilities, insurance)
- Up to 90 days of assistance
- Must be in active treatment with documented income loss
Who: Breast cancer patients in active treatment who have lost income
Cost: Free (income-based eligibility)
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Reach
📍 Cedar Knolls, NJ (national service)
Headquartered right here in New Jersey, Family Reach provides emergency grants for housing, utilities, and other essentials when cancer threatens a family’s financial stability. They also offer free financial planning services and a resource navigation tool to prevent families from falling through the cracks.
- Emergency financial grants (housing, utilities, food)
- Free financial planning with certified professionals
- Resource Navigator online tool
- Travel and transportation grants
Who: Cancer patients and families in financial crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Northern NJ (Bergen, Passaic & Essex Counties)
The most densely populated region of the state, with world-class cancer centers and strong community organizations.
Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey
📍 Hackensack, Bergen County
Named for comedian Gilda Radner, this welcoming clubhouse offers free emotional and social support for anyone impacted by cancer. Their programming includes support groups, lectures, workshops, social events, and a dedicated Noogieland program for children. No referral needed — just walk in.
- Support groups by cancer type, age, and role
- Noogieland children’s program
- Wellness workshops (yoga, cooking, art)
- Social events and community building
Who: Anyone impacted by cancer — patients, families, friends
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
John Theurer Cancer Center — Support Services
📍 Hackensack, Bergen County
Part of Hackensack Meridian Health, John Theurer Cancer Center provides comprehensive support services including social work, patient navigation, integrative medicine, survivorship planning, and financial counseling. Their Tomorrows Children’s Fund supports pediatric patients. One of the largest cancer programs in the Northeast.
- Oncology social work and patient navigation
- Integrative medicine (acupuncture, massage, meditation)
- Survivorship and wellness programs
- Financial counseling and charity care
Who: Patients in the Hackensack Meridian system and community
Cost: Free (support services); charity care available for treatment
Phone: 2-1-1
Hackensack Meridian Health — Cancer Support Groups
📍 Multiple locations across Bergen, Passaic, Hudson
Hackensack Meridian Health runs free cancer support groups across its network of hospitals in Northern NJ. Groups are available for breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, general cancer, caregivers, and bereavement. Many meet monthly at local community spaces within the hospital network.
- Disease-specific support groups
- Caregiver and bereavement groups
- Look Good Feel Better sessions
- Survivorship programs
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in the HMH network area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
YWCA of Bergen County — Cancer Wellness Programs
📍 Bergen County
The YWCA Bergen County runs ENCOREplus, a post-treatment exercise and wellness program for breast and cervical cancer survivors. They also provide peer support, gentle fitness classes, and connections to other community resources for women affected by cancer.
- ENCOREplus fitness program for survivors
- Peer support for breast/cervical cancer
- Wellness workshops and community events
- Referrals to additional community services
Who: Women affected by breast or cervical cancer in Bergen County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Bergen County Community Action Partnership
📍 Hackensack, Bergen County
Provides emergency food assistance, utility help, and housing support to Bergen County residents in crisis — including those facing financial hardship due to cancer treatment. Their case managers can connect cancer patients to multiple assistance programs through a single intake.
- Emergency food pantry and SNAP enrollment
- Utility bill assistance (LIHEAP)
- Emergency housing assistance
- Case management and benefit enrollment
Who: Bergen County residents in financial crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
St. Joseph’s Health — Cancer Support Programs
📍 Paterson, Passaic County
St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson offers free support groups, patient navigation, and financial counseling for cancer patients. Their community health workers provide culturally sensitive outreach to Passaic County’s diverse population, including Spanish and Arabic-speaking communities.
- Bilingual patient navigators
- Cancer support groups
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Community health education
Who: Cancer patients in Passaic County and surrounding areas
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative — Free Rides
📍 Bergen County
Provides free transportation to medical appointments for Bergen County residents who lack other options. Volunteer drivers take patients to chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer-related appointments when family cannot drive and public transit does not reach the treatment center.
- Free rides to cancer treatment appointments
- Volunteer driver network
- Door-to-door service within Bergen County
- Advance scheduling required
Who: Bergen County residents without transportation options
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Newark & Urban Essex
New Jersey’s largest city and surrounding communities, with programs addressing health disparities and urban-specific challenges.
Center for Elimination of Cancer Disparities (CEED) — Rutgers
📍 Newark/New Brunswick
CEED works specifically to reduce cancer health disparities in New Jersey’s underserved communities. They provide community health education, patient navigation for minority and low-income populations, and research initiatives focused on why cancer outcomes differ by race and income in NJ.
- Community health education in underserved areas
- Patient navigation for minority populations
- Free screening coordination
- Cultural competency training for providers
Who: Underserved communities in NJ, particularly communities of color
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Newark Beth Israel Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Newark, Essex County
Part of RWJBarnabas Health, Newark Beth Israel provides oncology social work, patient navigation, and financial counseling to cancer patients in Newark’s underserved communities. Their charity care program covers treatment for uninsured patients, and navigators help with benefits enrollment.
- Oncology social workers
- Charity care program for uninsured patients
- Benefits enrollment assistance
- Bilingual patient navigation (English/Spanish/Portuguese)
Who: Cancer patients in the Newark community
Cost: Free (support services); charity care for treatment
Phone: 2-1-1
Community FoodBank of New Jersey
📍 Hillside (serves Essex and beyond)
The largest food bank in the state, CFBNJ distributes food through hundreds of community partners. Cancer patients struggling to afford groceries while paying for treatment can access food pantries, mobile distributions, and SNAP enrollment help. Their website has a searchable food finder by zip code.
- Food pantry locator by zip code
- Mobile food distributions
- SNAP and WIC enrollment assistance
- Nutritious food boxes for families in crisis
Who: Anyone in NJ experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Essex County Division of Senior Services — Cancer Transport
📍 Essex County
For Essex County seniors with cancer, the Division of Senior Services provides transportation to medical appointments, home-delivered meals, and connections to home health aides. Their case managers coordinate multiple services so that older adults can continue treatment without sacrificing independence.
- Medical appointment transportation for seniors
- Home-delivered meals
- Home health aide referrals
- Case management and care coordination
Who: Essex County residents age 60+
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Clara Maass Medical Center — Cancer Wellness
📍 Belleville, Essex County
Clara Maass offers free cancer support groups, wellness workshops, and patient navigation services. Their community outreach programs focus on early detection in underserved neighborhoods, and their bilingual staff serves the area’s large Hispanic community.
- Free cancer support groups
- Wellness workshops and survivorship programs
- Bilingual patient navigation
- Community screening events
Who: Cancer patients and survivors in northern Essex County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Legal Services of New Jersey
📍 Edison (serves statewide, strong Newark presence)
Provides free civil legal services to low-income NJ residents, including help with Medicaid denials, disability applications, workplace discrimination during cancer treatment, and housing issues. Their health law project specifically handles cases where illness creates legal problems.
- Medicaid and insurance denial appeals
- Social Security Disability applications
- Workplace discrimination and FMLA issues
- Housing and utility shutoff prevention
Who: Low-income NJ residents (income guidelines apply)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Central NJ (Middlesex, Somerset & Mercer Counties)
Home to Rutgers Cancer Institute and a network of strong support organizations in the corridor between New York and Philadelphia.
Rutgers Cancer Institute — Survivorship & Wellness Program
📍 New Brunswick, Middlesex County
Beyond active treatment, Rutgers Cancer Institute’s survivorship program helps patients transition to life after cancer. Services include survivorship care plans, exercise programs, nutrition counseling, psychosocial support, and management of long-term treatment side effects.
- Personalized survivorship care plans
- Exercise and rehabilitation programs
- Nutrition and wellness counseling
- Long-term side effect management
Who: Cancer survivors who have completed active treatment
Cost: Free (support programs); insurance for medical services
Phone: 2-1-1
Wellness Community of Central NJ (now Cancer Support Community)
📍 Bedminster, Somerset County
Offers a full calendar of free programs including professionally-led support groups, mind-body classes, art therapy, educational workshops, and social gatherings. Their Frankly Speaking About Cancer series brings in oncology experts to discuss the latest in treatment and survivorship.
- Weekly support groups (disease-specific and general)
- Mind-body classes (yoga, qigong, meditation)
- Art therapy and creative expression
- Frankly Speaking About Cancer lectures
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in Central NJ
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital — Support Groups
📍 New Brunswick, Middlesex County
RWJUH runs multiple free cancer support groups including breast cancer, gynecologic cancers, head and neck cancer, and general cancer groups. They also offer Look Good Feel Better sessions, stress management workshops, and survivorship programs open to patients treated anywhere, not just at RWJ.
- Disease-specific support groups
- Look Good Feel Better beauty workshops
- Stress management and coping skills
- Open to all cancer patients regardless of where treated
Who: Any cancer patient, survivor, or caregiver
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Middlesex County Area Transit (MCAT) — Medical Transport
📍 Middlesex County
MCAT provides door-to-door shared-ride transportation for Middlesex County residents going to medical appointments, including cancer treatment. Riders must be registered and book in advance. Fares are minimal — far less than rideshare services — making this accessible for patients on fixed incomes.
- Door-to-door medical transport
- Low-cost fares ($2-4 per trip)
- Wheelchair accessible vehicles
- Advance booking required
Who: Middlesex County residents needing medical transportation
Cost: $2-4 per trip
Phone: 2-1-1
Elijah’s Promise — Food & Community Support
📍 New Brunswick, Middlesex County
Elijah’s Promise provides hot meals, food pantry services, and culinary training to those in need in the New Brunswick area. For cancer patients struggling to eat well during treatment while managing finances, their community soup kitchen and food resources provide nutritious options with dignity.
- Daily hot meals at community kitchen
- Food pantry with fresh produce
- No documentation or ID required
- Welcoming and dignified environment
Who: Anyone in need (no eligibility requirements)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Somerset Medical Center — Cancer Wellness Programs
📍 Somerville, Somerset County
Part of RWJBarnabas Health, Somerset Medical Center offers cancer support groups, integrative wellness programs, patient navigation, and survivorship services. Their Steeplechase Cancer Center provides a comfortable environment for treatment with support services co-located for convenience.
- Cancer support groups (multiple types)
- Integrative wellness (Reiki, massage, yoga)
- Patient navigation and social work
- Survivorship planning
Who: Cancer patients and survivors in Somerset County
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Princeton & Mercer County
A mix of affluent communities and working-class cities like Trenton, with strong hospital-based and community support programs.
Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Plainsboro, Mercer County
Princeton Medical Center offers a comprehensive cancer support program including individual counseling, support groups, wellness classes, patient navigation, and art therapy. Their Cancer Program Community Outreach partners with local organizations to expand access to screenings and education throughout Mercer County.
- Individual counseling with oncology social workers
- Support groups (breast, prostate, general, caregiver)
- Wellness classes and art therapy
- Community outreach and screening programs
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in the Princeton/Mercer area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Capital Health — Regional Cancer Center Support
📍 Pennington/Trenton, Mercer County
Capital Health’s Cancer Center provides support services including nurse navigators, social work, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs. Their Trenton-area presence means they serve one of NJ’s most underserved urban populations with culturally appropriate support.
- Nurse navigators for each cancer type
- Social work and financial counseling
- Nutritional counseling during treatment
- Survivorship care planning
Who: Cancer patients in the Capital Health system and Mercer County
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
Mercer Street Friends Food Bank
📍 Ewing, Mercer County
Provides food assistance through pantries, mobile distributions, and senior food programs across Mercer County. Cancer patients dealing with treatment costs can access nutritious food without stigma. They also connect families to SNAP benefits and other financial assistance programs.
- Food pantry and mobile distributions
- Senior food box program
- SNAP enrollment assistance
- Emergency food packages
Who: Mercer County residents experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
RIDE Provide — Mercer County Medical Transport
📍 Mercer County
A volunteer driver program that provides free rides to medical appointments for Mercer County residents who cannot drive and lack transportation options. Cancer patients needing regular rides to chemotherapy or radiation can count on reliable, compassionate volunteer drivers.
- Free rides to medical appointments
- Volunteer drivers trained in patient sensitivity
- Regular scheduling for recurring appointments
- Serves all of Mercer County
Who: Mercer County residents without transportation to medical care
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HomeFront NJ — Emergency Assistance
📍 Lawrenceville, Mercer County
HomeFront provides emergency assistance to families in crisis, including those overwhelmed by cancer-related expenses. Services include a free store for household items, emergency financial assistance for rent and utilities, housing programs, and community meals.
- Free store for household essentials
- Emergency rent and utility assistance
- Community meals program
- Holiday and back-to-school programs
Who: Families in financial crisis in Mercer County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Jersey Shore (Monmouth & Ocean Counties)
The coastal region, with strong community-based cancer support and programs addressing the needs of year-round residents and seasonal workers.
Monmouth Medical Center — Leon Hess Cancer Center Support
📍 Long Branch, Monmouth County
The Leon Hess Cancer Center provides comprehensive support services including oncology social work, patient navigation, genetic counseling, nutritional counseling, and support groups. Their patient navigators guide patients through the entire treatment journey from diagnosis through survivorship.
- Patient navigators for each cancer type
- Support groups (breast, general, caregiver)
- Nutritional and genetic counseling
- Financial assistance and charity care
Who: Cancer patients and families at Monmouth Medical Center
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
Hackensack Meridian Health — Jersey Shore University Medical Center
📍 Neptune, Monmouth County
JSUMC’s cancer program offers support groups, palliative care, social work services, and integrative medicine. Their community outreach includes free screening events along the Shore and partnerships with local organizations to reach underserved populations in Asbury Park and surrounding areas.
- Cancer support groups and wellness programs
- Integrative medicine services
- Palliative care team
- Community screening and education events
Who: Cancer patients and community members in the Shore area
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Ocean Medical Center — Cancer Support Programs
📍 Brick, Ocean County
Part of Hackensack Meridian Health, Ocean Medical Center offers cancer support groups, patient navigation, and wellness programs. Ocean County has a large senior population, and their programs are designed to address the needs of older adults managing cancer alongside other chronic conditions.
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Patient navigation services
- Senior-focused wellness programs
- Community health education
Who: Cancer patients and families in Ocean County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Fulfill (formerly FoodBank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties)
📍 Neptune, Monmouth County
Fulfill provides food to over 300 partner programs across Monmouth and Ocean counties. For cancer patients struggling with food costs during treatment, they offer food pantry referrals, mobile food distributions, SNAP enrollment, and connections to other social services through their Benefits Outreach program.
- Food pantry referrals by location
- Mobile food distributions
- SNAP and benefits enrollment assistance
- Connection to social services
Who: Anyone in Monmouth or Ocean County experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Monmouth County SCAT — Medical Transport
📍 Monmouth County
The Senior Citizens Activities and Transportation system provides low-cost rides to medical appointments for Monmouth County residents age 60 and older or those with disabilities. For seniors undergoing cancer treatment, this regular and reliable service eliminates a major barrier to care.
- Door-to-door medical transport
- Low-cost fares for seniors 60+
- Disability accommodations available
- Covers most of Monmouth County
Who: Monmouth County residents age 60+ or with disabilities
Cost: Low-cost (subsidized fares)
Phone: 2-1-1
Riverview Medical Center — Cancer Wellness
📍 Red Bank, Monmouth County
Offers free cancer support groups, survivorship programs, and community wellness events. Their partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health gives patients access to the entire network’s support resources, including integrative medicine, genetic counseling, and clinical trial matching.
- Free support groups
- Survivorship programs
- Community wellness events
- Access to HMH network resources
Who: Cancer patients and survivors in the Red Bank/Shore area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Shore Breast Center — Support Programs
📍 Toms River, Ocean County
Specialized support for breast cancer patients at the Jersey Shore, including peer mentoring from survivors, lymphedema management, post-surgical support, and connections to reconstructive resources. Their warm and knowledgeable staff helps patients feel less alone through every stage.
- Peer mentoring from breast cancer survivors
- Lymphedema education and support
- Post-surgical care guidance
- Reconstruction information and referrals
Who: Breast cancer patients in the Ocean County area
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Southern NJ (Camden, Burlington & Gloucester Counties)
The greater Philadelphia region of NJ, with access to both NJ and PA cancer resources and a mix of suburban and rural communities.
MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper — Patient Support
📍 Camden, Camden County
Cooper University Health Care partners with MD Anderson to bring world-class cancer care and support to South Jersey. Their support services include oncology social work, patient navigation, financial counseling, survivorship programs, and cancer rehabilitation. Their Camden location also serves communities with significant health disparities.
- Oncology social workers and patient navigators
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Cancer rehabilitation and survivorship
- Support groups and community outreach
Who: Cancer patients in the Cooper system and South Jersey community
Cost: Free (support services); charity care available
Phone: 2-1-1
Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice — Cancer Support
📍 Marlton, Burlington County (serves South Jersey)
Samaritan provides palliative care, hospice services, and grief counseling for cancer patients and families in South Jersey. Their grief support is open to anyone in the community — you do not need to be a Samaritan patient. They also run caregiver support programs and wellness workshops.
- Palliative care and pain management
- Bereavement counseling (open to community)
- Caregiver support and respite programs
- Wellness workshops for patients and families
Who: Advanced cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved families
Cost: Insurance/Medicare/Medicaid for hospice; grief support free
Phone: 2-1-1
Virtua Health — Cancer Support Services
📍 Multiple locations (Camden, Burlington, Gloucester)
Virtua’s cancer program spans South Jersey with support groups, patient navigation, financial counseling, and integrative wellness programs. Their cancer rehabilitation program helps patients rebuild strength during and after treatment, and their community outreach provides free screenings in underserved areas.
- Cancer support groups across South Jersey
- Patient navigation and social work
- Cancer rehabilitation program
- Free community screening events
Who: Cancer patients and survivors in South Jersey
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Food Bank of South Jersey
📍 Pennsauken, Camden County
Serves Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem counties with food distribution through hundreds of partner agencies. For cancer patients whose treatment costs are cutting into grocery budgets, they provide food pantry referrals, mobile distributions, and connections to SNAP and other benefit programs.
- Food pantry network across four counties
- Mobile food distributions
- SNAP and benefits enrollment
- No documentation required at most pantries
Who: Anyone in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, or Salem County experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lourdes Health System — Cancer Wellness
📍 Camden/Burlington County
Now part of Virtua, Lourdes continues to offer cancer support groups, spiritual care, and wellness programs. Their tradition of faith-based compassionate care means a focus on the whole person — body, mind, and spirit — during and after cancer treatment.
- Cancer support groups
- Spiritual care and chaplaincy
- Wellness and integrative programs
- Bereavement support
Who: Cancer patients and families in South Jersey
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Burlington County LINK — Medical Transportation
📍 Burlington County
Burlington County’s public transit system includes demand-responsive medical transportation for residents who cannot access fixed-route buses. Cancer patients in this sprawling suburban/rural county can schedule rides to treatment centers that might otherwise require a car they cannot drive.
- Demand-responsive medical transport
- Low-cost fares
- Wheelchair accessible
- Advance scheduling required
Who: Burlington County residents needing medical transportation
Cost: Low-cost
Phone: 2-1-1
South Jersey Legal Services
📍 Camden (serves South Jersey)
Provides free legal help to low-income South Jersey residents dealing with issues worsened by cancer: housing threats, benefit denials, debt collection, disability applications, and family law matters. Their medical-legal partnership places attorneys in healthcare settings to catch legal issues early.
- Disability and benefits appeals
- Housing and eviction defense
- Medical debt and consumer protection
- Medical-legal partnership at hospitals
Who: Low-income residents of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean, and Salem counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Atlantic City & Cape May
Southern coastal counties with seasonal economies, rural areas, and unique access challenges for cancer patients.
AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute — Support Services
📍 Egg Harbor Township, Atlantic County
AtlantiCare provides comprehensive cancer support including patient navigation, oncology social work, financial counseling, and support groups. As the primary cancer care provider for Atlantic and Cape May counties, they serve a region where many residents work in the service industry with limited benefits.
- Patient navigation and social work
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Support groups for patients and families
- Community screening programs
Who: Cancer patients in Atlantic and Cape May counties
Cost: Free (support services); charity care for treatment
Phone: 2-1-1
Community FoodBank of NJ — Southern Branch
📍 Egg Harbor Township, Atlantic County
The southern branch of CFBNJ serves Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland counties with food distribution, mobile pantries, and benefits enrollment. In a region where casino closures have devastated the economy, food insecurity during cancer treatment is a real and common problem.
- Food pantry network in southern counties
- Mobile food distributions
- Benefits enrollment (SNAP, WIC)
- Senior food programs
Who: Anyone in Atlantic, Cape May, or Cumberland County needing food
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Atlantic County Transportation — Medical Rides
📍 Atlantic County
Atlantic County provides subsidized transportation for medical appointments through its demand-responsive transit system. For cancer patients in this geographically spread-out county who need to get to treatment centers, this service fills the gap when there is no family driver or public bus route.
- Subsidized medical transport
- Demand-responsive scheduling
- Wheelchair accessible vehicles
- Serves all of Atlantic County
Who: Atlantic County residents needing medical transportation
Cost: Low-cost (subsidized)
Phone: 2-1-1
Cape Regional Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Cape May Court House, Cape May County
Cape Regional provides cancer support services to a largely rural and seasonal community at the southern tip of NJ. Their patient navigators and social workers help patients access resources that can be scarce in this remote area, including transportation, financial assistance, and support groups.
- Patient navigation and social work
- Cancer support groups
- Transportation assistance coordination
- Financial counseling
Who: Cancer patients in Cape May County
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
Pediatric & Young Adult Cancer Support
Specialized resources for children, teens, and young adults facing cancer in New Jersey.
The Valerie Fund
📍 Maplewood (7 centers across NJ)
Founded in NJ after a young girl’s battle with cancer, The Valerie Fund supports children with cancer and blood disorders through seven hospital-based centers across the state. Each center provides a comprehensive care team including social workers, child life specialists, psychologists, and educational liaisons — so children can continue school during treatment.
- Comprehensive support at 7 NJ hospital centers
- Child life specialists and psychologists
- Educational liaisons for school continuity
- Family financial assistance and emergency grants
Who: Children and teens with cancer and blood disorders
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Tomorrows Children’s Fund — Hackensack
📍 Hackensack, Bergen County
Supports children with cancer and serious blood disorders treated at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. They fund child life programs, family support services, arts and recreation during treatment, and the Don Imus-WFAN Pediatric Center. Their mission: making childhood cancer treatment less frightening.
- Child life and recreation programs during treatment
- Family support services and emergency assistance
- Back-to-school programs
- Bereavement support for families
Who: Pediatric cancer patients at Hackensack University Medical Center
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Make-A-Wish New Jersey
📍 Monroe Township (serves all of NJ)
Grants wishes to NJ children ages 2.5 to 18 who have life-threatening medical conditions, including cancer. Whether it is meeting a celebrity, visiting a theme park, or getting a backyard makeover, the wish provides joy and normalcy during an incredibly difficult time for the whole family.
- Wish-granting for children with life-threatening conditions
- Referral from medical professional needed
- Wishes tailored to each child’s dream
- Family included in wish experience
Who: Children ages 2.5-18 with life-threatening medical conditions
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation — NJ
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides direct financial assistance to families of children with cancer through their Travel for Treatment fund and Family Assistance grants. For NJ families traveling to specialized pediatric oncology centers in Philadelphia or New York, the travel fund helps cover gas, tolls, parking, and meals.
- Travel for Treatment grants
- Family financial assistance
- SuperSibs program for siblings
- Childhood cancer research funding
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free (grants)
Phone: 2-1-1
Camp Happy Times
📍 NJ-based (camp location varies)
A free one-week summer camp for NJ children ages 5-17 who have or have had cancer. Staffed by volunteer doctors, nurses, and counselors, Camp Happy Times gives kids a chance to just be kids — swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts — alongside peers who understand what cancer treatment is like.
- Free one-week summer camp
- On-site medical supervision
- Traditional camp activities adapted for medical needs
- Peer community of kids who understand
Who: NJ children ages 5-17 with cancer (current or past)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stupid Cancer (Young Adult Cancer Alliance)
📍 NYC-area (serves NJ young adults)
Serves young adults ages 15-39 facing cancer with peer support, events, and an online community. Their frank, irreverent approach resonates with young people who feel out of place in traditional cancer support settings designed for older patients. NJ young adults can access meetups in the metro area.
- Online peer community and forums
- In-person meetups in NYC/NJ metro
- CancerCon annual conference
- Resource navigation for young adults
Who: Young adults ages 15-39 with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Sharing Network — Pediatric Programs
📍 New Providence (statewide)
While primarily an organ and tissue donation organization, NJ Sharing Network supports pediatric cancer patients who may need bone marrow transplants by connecting families with the National Marrow Donor Program and providing education about the transplant process.
- Bone marrow donor registry connections
- Education about transplant options
- Family support during transplant process
- Community awareness events
Who: Patients needing bone marrow/stem cell transplants
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Veteran Cancer Support
Resources specifically for New Jersey veterans dealing with service-connected and non-service-connected cancers.
NJ Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
📍 Statewide (offices in every county)
Every county in NJ has a Veterans Service Officer who helps veterans access VA healthcare, file disability claims for service-connected cancers, and connect with state and local support. For veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, or contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, these officers know how to build a claim under the PACT Act.
- VA healthcare enrollment assistance
- Disability claims for service-connected cancers
- PACT Act and toxic exposure claims
- County Veterans Service Officers statewide
Who: NJ veterans and their dependents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
VA New Jersey Health Care System
📍 East Orange (main campus), with CBOCs statewide
The VA NJ HCS provides cancer treatment, oncology referrals, and support services for enrolled veterans. Their social work team helps with benefits enrollment, caregiver support, transportation assistance through the Veterans Transportation Service, and palliative care. Community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) throughout NJ improve access.
- Cancer treatment and oncology referrals
- Social work and mental health support
- Veterans Transportation Service (free rides)
- Caregiver Support Program
Who: Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare
Cost: Free or copay-based depending on service connection and income
Phone: 2-1-1
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) — NJ Posts
📍 Statewide (local posts)
Local VFW posts across NJ provide peer support, claims assistance, and emergency financial help for veterans dealing with cancer. Their service officers help navigate VA disability claims, and many posts run hardship funds for members facing medical crises.
- Peer support from fellow veterans
- VA claims assistance
- Emergency financial assistance
- Community and camaraderie
Who: Veterans and their families
Cost: Free (membership dues for full benefits)
Phone: 2-1-1
Additional Statewide & Specialized Resources
More organizations serving specific needs, populations, or cancer types across New Jersey.
Sharsheret — Jewish Women’s Cancer Support
📍 Teaneck, Bergen County (serves nationally)
Headquartered in NJ, Sharsheret supports Jewish women and families facing breast and ovarian cancer — though all are welcome regardless of faith. They offer peer matching, genetics education (especially relevant for Ashkenazi Jewish women with elevated BRCA risk), and culturally sensitive support groups.
- Peer support from trained volunteers
- Genetics education and counseling referrals
- Culturally sensitive support programs
- Busy Box care packages and wig bank
Who: Jewish women and families facing cancer (all welcome)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sisters Network NJ — African American Breast Cancer Survivors
📍 Statewide
Sisters Network is a national organization with NJ chapter activity, providing peer support, education, and community for African American breast cancer survivors. They address the unique challenges Black women face — later-stage diagnoses, more aggressive subtypes, and systemic barriers to care.
- Peer support from Black breast cancer survivors
- Community education events
- Gift of Life Block Walk (screening outreach)
- Culturally relevant support and advocacy
Who: African American breast cancer survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Us TOO International — NJ Prostate Cancer Support Groups
📍 Multiple NJ locations
Us TOO runs prostate cancer support groups at multiple NJ locations where men talk openly about what they are going through — treatment decisions, side effects, fear, and life after diagnosis. Partners and spouses are welcome. Groups meet monthly and are led by trained peer facilitators.
- Monthly prostate cancer support groups
- Led by trained peer facilitators
- Partners and spouses welcome
- Educational speakers on treatment options
Who: Men with prostate cancer and their partners
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
HealthWell provides copay assistance for expensive cancer medications. When your prescription costs hundreds or thousands per month even with insurance, HealthWell’s disease-specific funds can cover the difference. Funds open and close based on availability — apply as soon as you learn your medication cost.
- Copay assistance for cancer medications
- Disease-specific funds (check availability)
- Fast application process
- Works with your pharmacy directly
Who: Insured patients who cannot afford medication copays
Cost: Free (financial eligibility applies)
Phone: 2-1-1
PAN Foundation (Patient Access Network)
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
PAN helps underinsured patients afford out-of-pocket costs for cancer treatments. Their disease-specific funds cover copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. For NJ patients facing high-deductible plans common with employer-sponsored insurance, PAN can mean the difference between affording treatment or not.
- Copay, coinsurance, and deductible assistance
- Disease-specific funds for many cancer types
- Quick enrollment (often same-day)
- Income eligibility up to 400% FPL
Who: Insured patients with financial hardship (income guidelines apply)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)
📍 Statewide (online database)
A coalition of nonprofits maintaining a searchable database of financial assistance programs for cancer patients. Search by diagnosis, type of help needed, and location to find programs you may never have heard of. An essential first stop when you need financial help.
- Searchable database of financial assistance programs
- Filter by cancer type, need, and location
- Links directly to application pages
- Updated regularly
Who: Any cancer patient or caregiver seeking financial help
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA — NJ Locations
📍 Multiple YMCA locations across NJ
A free 12-week fitness program at participating NJ YMCAs designed specifically for cancer survivors. Trained instructors create personalized exercise plans that account for treatment side effects, surgical limitations, and fatigue. Many participants find both physical recovery and emotional community through the program.
- Free 12-week exercise program
- Trained instructors specialized in cancer recovery
- Personalized fitness plans
- Free YMCA membership during program
Who: Cancer survivors (during or after treatment)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels — One-on-One Cancer Support
📍 Statewide (phone/video matching)
Matches cancer patients and caregivers with someone who has been through the same cancer — same type, same stage, similar demographics. This one-on-one connection with a “Mentor Angel” who truly understands can provide hope and practical wisdom that no brochure can offer.
- One-on-one peer matching by cancer type
- Matches for patients, caregivers, and previvors
- Phone and video connections
- Free and confidential
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and previvors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Caregiver Coalition
📍 Statewide
A statewide coalition providing resources, support, and advocacy for family caregivers in NJ. They connect cancer caregivers to respite care, support groups, education, and benefits like NJ’s paid family leave. Their website aggregates caregiver resources from across the state in one place.
- Caregiver resource directory
- Respite care connections
- NJ Family Leave Act guidance
- Support group referrals
Who: Family caregivers of cancer patients in NJ
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Hope Network
📍 Chester, NJ (serves nationally)
Based right here in NJ, Cancer Hope Network matches cancer patients with trained volunteer survivors who have been through the same diagnosis. Their volunteers provide one-on-one emotional support by phone, helping patients feel less alone and more prepared for what lies ahead.
- One-on-one peer support by phone
- Matched by cancer type, treatment, and demographics
- Trained volunteer survivors
- Support for patients and caregivers
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers seeking peer support
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lung Cancer Alliance/GO2 Foundation — NJ
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer provides support for lung cancer patients regardless of smoking history — combating the stigma that prevents many patients from seeking help. Their helpline connects callers with trained specialists, and they run online support groups and a peer-matching program.
- Helpline with trained lung cancer specialists
- Online support groups
- Peer-to-peer matching program
- Stigma-free approach to lung cancer
Who: Lung cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colorectal Cancer Alliance — NJ Support
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Provides support for colorectal cancer patients through their Helpline, buddy program, and online community. Their Blue Hope Nation peer matching connects newly diagnosed patients with survivors. NJ has higher-than-average colorectal cancer rates in some industrial areas, making this resource particularly relevant.
- Helpline for emotional and practical support
- Blue Hope Nation peer-to-peer matching
- Online patient community
- Financial assistance information
Who: Colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network — NJ
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
PanCAN provides comprehensive support for pancreatic cancer patients through their Patient Services program. Their case managers help with treatment options, clinical trial matching, and connections to local support. Given pancreatic cancer’s aggressive nature, their rapid-response approach is crucial.
- Case managers for each patient
- Clinical trial matching (Know Your Tumor)
- Free educational materials
- Peer support connections
Who: Pancreatic cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
📍 Statewide
A state program that helps NJ seniors and disabled residents pay for prescription medications. For cancer patients on fixed incomes who face expensive oral chemotherapy or supportive medications, PAAD can reduce copays to $5 per prescription. Also helps with Medicare Part D enrollment.
- Reduced prescription copays ($5 per fill)
- Medicare Part D premium assistance
- For seniors 65+ and disabled residents
- Income-based eligibility
Who: NJ residents 65+ or receiving Social Security Disability (income limits apply)
Cost: $5 copay per prescription
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ LIHEAP & USF — Utility Assistance
📍 Statewide (through county boards of social services)
When cancer treatment costs force impossible choices between medicine and keeping the heat on, NJ’s LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and USF (Universal Service Fund) help pay utility bills. Cancer patients who have lost income often qualify even if they did not before diagnosis.
- Help paying heating and cooling bills
- Shutoff prevention assistance
- Income-based eligibility (flexible during medical crisis)
- Apply through county social services
Who: NJ residents meeting income guidelines
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Look Good Feel Better — NJ Sessions
📍 Multiple hospitals across NJ
Free workshops at NJ hospitals teaching beauty techniques to cancer patients dealing with appearance-related side effects of treatment. Participants receive a complimentary cosmetics kit and learn tips for managing hair loss, skin changes, and nail problems — practical help that restores a sense of normalcy.
- Free beauty workshops at NJ hospitals
- Complimentary cosmetics kit
- Tips for hair loss, skin, and nail changes
- Wig selection and head covering guidance
Who: Women undergoing cancer treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance — NJ Support
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
OCRA provides support for ovarian cancer patients through their helpline, online community, and peer-to-peer matching. Their navigators help patients understand treatment options, find clinical trials, and connect with local support. Especially valuable given ovarian cancer’s often late-stage diagnosis.
- Woman to Woman peer support matching
- Patient helpline and navigation
- Online support community
- Clinical trial information
Who: Ovarian cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Hospice & Palliative Care Organization
📍 Statewide
Connects NJ residents with hospice and palliative care providers across the state. They provide education about palliative care (which can begin at diagnosis, not just end of life), help families understand options, and advocate for better access to comfort-focused care alongside cancer treatment.
- Hospice and palliative care provider directory
- Education about palliative care options
- Family support and guidance
- Advance care planning resources
Who: Cancer patients and families considering palliative/hospice care
Cost: Free (referral service); hospice covered by insurance/Medicare
Phone: 2-1-1
Melanoma Research Foundation — NJ
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
NJ has one of the higher melanoma incidence rates in the Northeast. The Melanoma Research Foundation provides patient support through peer connections, online communities, and educational resources. Their Nurse Navigator service helps patients understand treatment options and clinical trials.
- Nurse Navigator service
- Peer support and online community
- Clinical trial information
- Educational webinars and resources
Who: Melanoma patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Self-Help Group Clearinghouse
📍 Statewide (phone referral service)
A free referral service that connects callers to local support groups across NJ for any condition — including many cancer-specific groups. If you cannot find a support group through your hospital, call the Clearinghouse and they will search their database for groups near you, by cancer type, language, or other criteria.
- Free referral to NJ support groups
- Searchable database by condition and location
- Help starting new groups where none exist
- Phone: 1-800-367-6274
Who: Anyone seeking a support group in NJ
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-367-6274
NJ Charity Care Program
📍 All NJ hospitals
By law, every NJ hospital must provide charity care — free or reduced-cost treatment for patients who cannot pay. If you are uninsured or underinsured and facing cancer treatment costs, ask the hospital’s financial counselor about charity care. Income limits are generous: families up to 300% of the federal poverty level may qualify for free care.
- Free or reduced-cost hospital care
- Required at every NJ hospital
- Income up to 300% FPL for free care
- Ask financial counseling department to apply
Who: Uninsured/underinsured NJ residents meeting income guidelines
Cost: Free or reduced
Phone: 2-1-1
Atlantic Health System — Cancer Support Groups
📍 Morristown, Overlook, Newton (Morris/Union/Sussex)
Atlantic Health runs free cancer support groups across its network in Morris, Union, and Sussex counties. Groups include breast cancer, general cancer, gynecologic cancer, and caregivers. Their integrative medicine program offers complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, and mindfulness during treatment.
- Disease-specific support groups
- Integrative medicine (acupuncture, massage)
- Survivorship and wellness programs
- Patient navigation services
Who: Cancer patients in the Atlantic Health service area
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Trinitas Regional Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Elizabeth, Union County
Trinitas serves one of NJ’s most diverse urban areas with cancer support services including bilingual patient navigation, social work, financial counseling, and support groups in English and Spanish. Their community outreach provides free screenings in Elizabeth and surrounding communities.
- Bilingual patient navigation (English/Spanish)
- Support groups in English and Spanish
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Free community screening events
Who: Cancer patients in Union County, especially Elizabeth’s diverse community
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
Holy Name Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Teaneck, Bergen County
Holy Name’s Regional Cancer Center offers support groups, patient navigation, integrative services, and a comprehensive survivorship program. They serve Bergen County’s diverse population with sensitivity to different cultural and religious needs, and their social workers connect patients to local assistance programs.
- Cancer support groups
- Integrative therapies (Reiki, massage, yoga)
- Patient navigation and social work
- Culturally sensitive care
Who: Cancer patients in the Bergen County area
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Good Days (formerly Chronic Disease Fund)
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Good Days provides financial assistance for cancer patients who cannot afford their copays, premiums, or treatment-related travel. Their disease-specific programs cover many cancer types, and their travel assistance program helps NJ patients who need to travel for specialized treatment.
- Copay and premium assistance
- Travel assistance for treatment
- Disease-specific programs
- Quick enrollment process
Who: Insured cancer patients with financial need
Cost: Free (eligibility criteria apply)
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Division of Aging Services — Caregiver Support
📍 Statewide (through Area Agencies on Aging)
Through Area Agencies on Aging in each county, the state provides caregiver support services including respite care, support groups, training, and information. For those caring for an older adult with cancer, these programs can prevent caregiver burnout and provide needed breaks.
- Respite care (in-home and facility-based)
- Caregiver support groups
- Caregiver training and education
- Information and referral services
Who: Caregivers of adults age 60+ (including cancer patients)
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Centrastate Medical Center — Cancer Support
📍 Freehold, Monmouth County
CentraState offers cancer support groups, patient navigation, and a comprehensive survivorship program. Their Star and Barry Tobias Health Awareness Center provides free community health education and screening events focused on cancer prevention and early detection in western Monmouth County.
- Cancer support groups
- Patient navigation services
- Community health education center
- Free screening events
Who: Cancer patients and community members in western Monmouth County
Cost: Free (support programs)
Phone: 2-1-1
Inspira Health — Cancer Support Services
📍 Vineland/Mullica Hill (Gloucester, Cumberland, Salem)
Inspira serves NJ’s rural southern counties with cancer support including patient navigation, social work, support groups, and community outreach. In an area where the next major cancer center may be 45 minutes away, their local support programs reduce isolation and improve outcomes.
- Patient navigation and social work
- Cancer support groups
- Community health education
- Charity care program
Who: Cancer patients in Gloucester, Cumberland, and Salem counties
Cost: Free (support services)
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ WorkFirst / General Assistance
📍 Statewide (through county boards of social services)
For cancer patients who have lost their jobs due to treatment and exhausted unemployment, NJ’s public assistance programs provide emergency cash assistance, food benefits, and Medicaid coverage. Apply through your county board of social services — bring documentation of your diagnosis and income loss.
- Emergency cash assistance
- SNAP food benefits
- Medicaid enrollment
- Case management and support services
Who: NJ residents with very low income (income limits apply)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Head & Neck Cancer Alliance — NJ Support
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Provides specialized support for head and neck cancer patients dealing with challenges like difficulty speaking, swallowing, or eating after treatment. They connect patients with local support groups, speech therapists, nutritionists, and peer mentors who have navigated similar challenges.
- Peer mentor matching
- Support group referrals
- Speech and swallowing resources
- Nutritional guidance
Who: Head and neck cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Kidney Cancer Association — NJ
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Provides education, support, and advocacy for kidney cancer patients. Their patient liaison program offers one-on-one peer connections, and their online community connects patients with others facing similar diagnoses. They also maintain a directory of NJ urologic oncologists.
- Patient liaison peer support
- Online patient community
- Educational resources and webinars
- Physician directory
Who: Kidney cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Transit — Reduced Fare Program
📍 Statewide
NJ Transit offers reduced fares (half-price) for seniors 62+ and people with disabilities on buses, trains, and light rail. For cancer patients who qualify for disability status and use NJ Transit to reach treatment centers, this cuts transportation costs significantly on a system that reaches most of the state.
- Half-price bus, train, and light rail fares
- Available to seniors 62+ and disabled riders
- Covers the entire NJ Transit system
- Disability ID card available through NJ Transit
Who: Seniors 62+ and people with disabilities
Cost: Half-price fares
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Transit Access Link — Paratransit
📍 Statewide (within 3/4 mile of bus routes)
Access Link is NJ Transit’s paratransit service for people whose disabilities prevent them from using regular buses or trains. Cancer patients who cannot physically manage public transit due to treatment effects can apply for door-to-door service to medical appointments and other destinations.
- Door-to-door paratransit service
- For those unable to use fixed-route transit
- Must apply and be certified
- Available statewide near transit routes
Who: People with disabilities that prevent use of regular public transit
Cost: Same as regular bus fare
Phone: 2-1-1
Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE) — NJ
📍 Statewide (online and local meetups)
FORCE supports people with hereditary cancer risk (BRCA, Lynch syndrome, and others). In NJ’s large Ashkenazi Jewish population and other communities with elevated genetic risk, FORCE provides peer support, education about risk management, and connections to genetic counselors. NJ meetups happen periodically.
- Support for hereditary cancer risk
- Peer community (online and local)
- Education about risk management options
- Genetic counselor connections
Who: People with hereditary cancer risk and previvors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Mental Health Cares — Cancer Distress Line
📍 Statewide (phone)
NJ’s behavioral health helpline connects callers to mental health support, including those experiencing distress related to a cancer diagnosis. They can provide referrals to therapists experienced with cancer patients, crisis intervention, and connections to support groups. Call 866-202-HELP (4357).
- Free behavioral health helpline
- Referrals to cancer-experienced therapists
- Crisis intervention
- Phone: 866-202-HELP (4357)
Who: Anyone in NJ experiencing mental health distress
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Temporary Disability Insurance
📍 Statewide
NJ’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides partial wage replacement when you cannot work due to cancer treatment. Most NJ workers are covered automatically through payroll deductions. Benefits last up to 26 weeks — a crucial income bridge during chemotherapy, surgery recovery, or radiation.
- Partial wage replacement (up to 85% of average weekly wage)
- Up to 26 weeks of benefits
- Most NJ workers automatically covered
- Apply online or by phone
Who: NJ workers unable to work due to medical condition
Cost: Free to apply (benefits based on prior earnings)
Phone: 2-1-1
NJ Family Leave Insurance
📍 Statewide
NJ Family Leave Insurance allows caregivers to take paid time off to care for a family member with a serious health condition, including cancer. Benefits provide up to 85% of your average weekly wage for up to 12 weeks. This is separate from FMLA and provides actual income during caregiving leave.
- Paid leave for cancer caregivers (up to 12 weeks)
- Up to 85% of average weekly wage
- Job protection when combined with NJ FMLA
- Apply through NJ Department of Labor
Who: NJ workers caring for a family member with serious illness
Cost: Free to apply (benefits based on prior earnings)
Phone: 2-1-1
Explore support in nearby states: New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, or browse all states.
Not Sure Where to Start?
- Call 2-1-1 — free, 24/7, multilingual. They connect you to local programs anywhere in New Jersey.
- Call 1-800-227-2345 — American Cancer Society specialists help with rides, lodging, support groups, and financial aid.
- Talk to your care team — ask for a social worker or patient navigator. That is literally their job.
- Ask about NJ Charity Care — every hospital in the state is required to provide it. You may qualify even with insurance.
- Search cancerfac.org — filter by diagnosis and need.
- Bookmark this page. Share it. Come back anytime.