Cancer Support Resources in Arkansas
Arkansas patients outside Little Rock and Fayetteville often face long drives for specialist care, especially those in the Delta flatlands and the Ozark highlands. The state has one of the highest cancer mortality rates in the nation — a number that reflects not only how many people get cancer, but the deep barriers to early detection and consistent treatment that shape outcomes for too many Arkansans.
The Arkansas Delta tells the starkest story. Eastern Arkansas counties — Phillips, Lee, St. Francis, Mississippi, and others — are among the poorest in the United States. Poverty rates above 25 percent are common, healthcare infrastructure is thin, and transportation to Little Rock or Memphis can represent a full day’s effort for patients without reliable vehicles. Cancer screening rates in these communities are significantly below state and national averages, which means diagnoses often come at late stages when treatment is more difficult, more expensive, and less likely to succeed. The Delta’s population is majority African American in many counties, and the intersection of poverty and racial health disparities means Black Arkansans bear a disproportionate share of the state’s cancer burden.
The Ozark and Ouachita mountain regions present a different but equally difficult set of challenges. Geographic isolation is real — winding mountain roads mean that a town 50 miles away can take 90 minutes to reach. Mountain Home, Mena, and Yellville are examples of communities where local hospital resources are limited and any specialized oncology care requires significant travel. These are largely white, rural, lower-income communities with high tobacco use rates, elevated rates of lung and colorectal cancer, and a strong culture of self-reliance that can make it harder for patients to ask for help.
Little Rock anchors Arkansas’s cancer care network. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and its Winthrop Rockefeller Cancer Institute provide the state’s most comprehensive oncology services, including clinical trials and subspecialty care. Patients in central Arkansas have reasonable access to these resources. The challenge is the significant portion of the state that is not in central Arkansas — and for those patients, connecting with support programs often requires help from a navigator or social worker who knows what’s available.
Arkansas has consistently high rates of tobacco use, which drives elevated lung, throat, and esophageal cancer rates statewide. Colorectal and cervical cancer rates are also among the nation’s highest — both cancers that are highly preventable and treatable with early detection but are frequently caught late in underserved communities. Financial assistance and transportation programs are particularly important in this environment, where cost and logistics delay care from the very beginning.
The state has a significant veteran population, with Fort Smith and the surrounding area historically tied to military service. Veterans facing cancer diagnoses may qualify for VA oncology services and benefits through the John L. McClellan Veterans Hospital in Little Rock and community-based clinics across the state. Several organizations listed here specialize in veteran support and can help navigate those programs.
Whether you are a patient in treatment, a survivor moving forward, a caregiver holding it all together, or a social worker looking for referrals — this page is for you. Resources are organized starting with statewide programs, then by region across the state.
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Statewide Resources
These organizations serve all of Arkansas — by phone, online, or through regional offices. Start here if you are unsure where to look.
American Cancer Society — Arkansas
📍 Statewide (office in Little Rock)
The ACS provides free rides to treatment through Road to Recovery, a 24/7 helpline staffed by cancer information specialists, and connections to local support groups across Arkansas. Their Hope Lodge network may serve Arkansas patients who need to travel out of state for specialized treatment.
- 24/7 helpline: 1-800-227-2345
- Road to Recovery free transportation
- Support groups and online community
- Look Good Feel Better program
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
Arkansas Cancer Coalition
📍 Statewide
A statewide coalition of organizations working to reduce cancer incidence and mortality in Arkansas. They coordinate prevention, early detection, and survivorship efforts, and can connect patients with local resources throughout the state. Their comprehensive cancer control plan addresses disparities in the Delta and rural communities.
- Cancer prevention education and outreach
- Resource referrals across the state
- Community health worker connections
- Focus on underserved populations
Who: All Arkansas residents affected by cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
CancerCare
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Every counselor at CancerCare is a licensed oncology social worker. They provide free one-on-one counseling by phone, online support groups, and limited financial help for copays and transportation. No office visit needed — they serve anyone in Arkansas remotely.
- Individual counseling with oncology social workers
- Telephone and online support groups
- Financial assistance for treatment costs
- Caregiver-specific programs
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved loved ones
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Arkansas Department of Health — BreastCare Program
📍 Statewide
Arkansas’s state-funded program providing free breast and cervical cancer screenings for uninsured and underinsured women. If cancer is found through the program, patients are connected to Medicaid coverage for treatment through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act. This is one of the most critical safety nets for low-income women in Arkansas.
- Free mammograms and Pap tests
- Diagnostic follow-up services
- Medicaid enrollment after diagnosis
- Phone: 501-661-2942 or 1-877-670-2273
Who: Uninsured/underinsured women ages 21-64
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-661-2942
ARKids First & Arkansas Medicaid
📍 Statewide
Arkansas Medicaid and the ARKids First program provide health coverage to low-income families and children, including cancer treatment coverage. The Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me (ARHOME) program extends coverage to adults. If you are uninsured and facing a cancer diagnosis, applying for Medicaid should be one of your first steps.
- Full coverage for cancer treatment
- Prescription drug coverage
- ARKids First for children under 19
- Phone: 1-800-482-8988
Who: Low-income Arkansas residents
Cost: Free or very low cost
Phone: 1-800-482-8988
Patient Advocate Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone-based)
Provides case managers who work one-on-one with patients to resolve insurance denials, negotiate medical debt, and connect patients with copay assistance programs. They also offer a Co-Pay Relief Program for specific cancer diagnoses. Particularly valuable for Arkansas patients navigating complex insurance issues.
- Insurance appeals and denials help
- Medical debt negotiation
- Co-Pay Relief Program
- Phone: 800-532-5274
Who: All cancer patients with financial or insurance barriers
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-532-5274
Joe’s House
📍 Statewide (online directory)
An online resource helping cancer patients find affordable lodging near treatment centers. Especially valuable for rural Arkansas patients who need to travel to Little Rock for specialized treatment at UAMS. Lists hotels, hospitality houses, and other options near major cancer centers.
- Searchable database of lodging near treatment centers
- Discounted hotel rates for patients
- Links to hospitality houses
Who: Cancer patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Free to search; lodging costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
Susan G. Komen — Arkansas
📍 Statewide
Komen provides breast cancer education, screening assistance, and treatment support across Arkansas. Their helpline offers free one-on-one support from trained specialists, and they fund local programs that provide mammograms and diagnostics for underserved women throughout the state.
- Breast Care Helpline: 1-877-465-6636
- Screening and treatment financial assistance
- Patient navigation services
- Educational resources in English and Spanish
Who: Breast cancer patients and those needing screening
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-877-465-6636
PAN Foundation (Patient Access Network)
📍 Statewide (phone/online application)
Helps underinsured cancer patients cover out-of-pocket costs for medications. They maintain disease-specific funds that open and close based on available funding. If your fund is closed, sign up for alerts — they reopen frequently. A critical resource for Arkansans facing high drug copays.
- Copay assistance for cancer medications
- Travel assistance for treatment
- Phone: 866-316-7263
Who: Insured patients who cannot afford copays
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-316-7263
Arkansas Foodbank
📍 Statewide (33 counties in central and southern AR)
The largest hunger-relief organization in the state, distributing food through a network of partner agencies across 33 counties. Cancer patients dealing with food insecurity — common when treatment costs drain household budgets — can access food pantries, mobile food distributions, and SNAP application assistance.
- Network of food pantries across central and southern Arkansas
- Mobile food pantry for rural communities
- SNAP application assistance
- Phone: 501-565-8121
Who: Anyone facing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-565-8121
Northwest Arkansas Food Bank
📍 Statewide (NW Arkansas focus, serves northern counties)
Serves the northwest and northern portions of the state with food distribution through partner agencies. Cancer patients in the Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and surrounding areas can find partner pantries in their community.
- Partner food pantries across NW Arkansas
- Mobile food distributions in rural areas
- Phone: 479-872-8774
Who: Anyone facing food insecurity in northern Arkansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 479-872-8774
Center for Arkansas Legal Services (CALS)
📍 Statewide
Provides free civil legal help to low-income Arkansans, including cancer patients facing employment discrimination, insurance denials, estate planning needs, and public benefits issues. Their medical-legal partnerships with hospitals can address legal problems that affect health outcomes.
- Employment rights and FMLA guidance
- Insurance disputes and appeals
- Advance directives and estate planning
- Phone: 1-800-950-5817
Who: Low-income Arkansas residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-950-5817
Legal Aid of Arkansas
📍 Statewide (offices in Springdale, Harrison, Jonesboro, West Memphis)
Provides free legal assistance to low-income residents in northern and eastern Arkansas. Cancer patients can get help with disability benefits, Medicaid denials, advance directives, and workplace issues related to their diagnosis.
- Disability benefits applications and appeals
- Medicaid and insurance issues
- Wills and advance directives
- Phone: 1-800-952-9243
Who: Low-income residents in service area
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-952-9243
Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
📍 Little Rock (with CBOCs statewide)
The VA healthcare system in Arkansas provides comprehensive cancer treatment and support services for eligible veterans. The main medical center in Little Rock has oncology services, and Community-Based Outpatient Clinics across the state provide local access points. Veterans exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, or other service-related carcinogens may qualify for presumptive service connection for certain cancers.
- Oncology treatment and referrals
- PACT Act expanded eligibility for toxic exposure cancers
- Social work and benefits coordination
- Phone: 501-257-1000
Who: Eligible veterans
Cost: Free or low cost based on eligibility
Phone: 501-257-1000
Veterans Healthcare of the Ozarks
📍 Fayetteville (with CBOCs in NW Arkansas)
Serves veterans in northwest Arkansas and surrounding areas with healthcare including cancer screening and treatment referrals. The Fayetteville facility is a major VA center for the region. Veterans needing specialized oncology care may be referred to Little Rock or other VA facilities.
- Cancer screening and referrals
- Social work services
- Travel reimbursement for VA appointments
- Phone: 479-443-4301
Who: Eligible veterans in NW Arkansas
Cost: Free or low cost based on eligibility
Phone: 479-443-4301
Arkansas 2-1-1
📍 Statewide
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Arkansas to connect with a trained specialist who can help you find local resources including transportation, financial assistance, food, housing, and support services. Available 24/7, the service is operated by United Way and is an essential first call when you do not know where to start.
- 24/7 resource referral hotline
- Searchable online database
- Connects to local services in your county
- Dial 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to 898-211
Who: Anyone in Arkansas needing resource referrals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation
📍 Statewide (online/phone application)
Provides financial assistance for prescription copays, premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket medical costs. They maintain disease-specific funds for various cancers. Particularly helpful for Arkansas patients whose insurance leaves significant cost-sharing gaps.
- Copay and premium assistance
- Disease-specific funds (check availability)
- Phone: 1-800-675-8416
Who: Insured patients who cannot afford out-of-pocket costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-675-8416
Cancer Support Community — Toll-Free Helpline
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides free emotional support, education, and community for cancer patients and caregivers. Their toll-free Cancer Support Helpline connects Arkansans with licensed counselors and support group facilitators. Online programs are especially valuable for rural patients who cannot travel to in-person groups.
- Cancer Support Helpline: 1-888-793-9355
- Online support groups and workshops
- Frankly Speaking About Cancer educational programs
- Caregiver support resources
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-888-793-9355
Little Rock & Central Arkansas
Little Rock is the hub of cancer care in Arkansas, home to the state’s only NCI-designated cancer institute and the largest hospital systems. Most Arkansans in advanced treatment will spend time here.
UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute
📍 Little Rock
Arkansas’s only NCI-designated cancer center, located at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Beyond treatment, they offer extensive patient support services including financial counseling, patient navigation, support groups, survivorship programs, and clinical trial access. Their Community Health Workers reach into rural and Delta communities to connect patients with care.
- Patient navigation and social work services
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Support groups (disease-specific and general)
- Survivorship clinic and wellness programs
- Clinical trials access
- Phone: 501-686-8000
Who: All cancer patients
Cost: Support services free; financial assistance available for treatment
Phone: 501-686-8000
Baptist Health Cancer Center
📍 Little Rock (with locations across central AR)
One of Arkansas’s largest health systems, Baptist Health operates cancer centers in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, and other central Arkansas locations. They offer patient navigation, social work services, support groups, and financial assistance programs. Their nurse navigators help patients coordinate care across the system.
- Nurse navigator program
- On-site social workers
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Phone: 501-202-2000
Who: Cancer patients in Baptist Health system
Cost: Support services free; financial assistance for treatment available
Phone: 501-202-2000
CHI St. Vincent Cancer Care
📍 Little Rock, Hot Springs, Morrilton
CHI St. Vincent provides cancer care at multiple locations across central Arkansas. Their mission-driven approach includes robust financial assistance programs, patient navigation, and spiritual care services. As a faith-based system, they emphasize whole-person care and never turn away patients who cannot pay.
- Patient navigation services
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Spiritual care and chaplaincy
- Support groups
- Phone: 501-552-3000
Who: All cancer patients
Cost: Financial assistance available; charity care for qualifying patients
Phone: 501-552-3000
Arkansas Children’s Hospital — Hematology/Oncology
📍 Little Rock
The primary pediatric cancer treatment center in Arkansas. Their hematology/oncology division provides comprehensive cancer care for children and adolescents, including access to clinical trials through the Children’s Oncology Group. Family support services include social work, child life specialists, educational liaisons, and family housing assistance.
- Comprehensive pediatric cancer treatment
- Child life specialists and therapeutic play
- Family social work and resource coordination
- Ronald McDonald House referrals for families
- School re-entry program
- Phone: 501-364-1100
Who: Children and adolescents with cancer
Cost: Financial assistance available; no child turned away
Phone: 501-364-1100
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas
📍 Little Rock
Provides a home away from home for families of children receiving treatment at Arkansas Children’s Hospital or UAMS. The Little Rock house is often the lifeline for families traveling from rural Arkansas for their child’s cancer treatment — sometimes weeks or months at a time. Meals, laundry, and a supportive community of other families are included.
- Free or low-cost lodging for families
- Meals and kitchen facilities
- Family support programs
- Phone: 501-663-7822
Who: Families of children receiving medical treatment
Cost: Suggested donation of $10-20/night; no family turned away
Phone: 501-663-7822
UAMS Cancer Institute Support Groups
📍 Little Rock (some virtual)
UAMS offers a range of disease-specific and general cancer support groups facilitated by trained professionals. Groups meet regularly for breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, gynecologic cancers, and general survivorship. Some meetings are available via telehealth, making them accessible to patients across the state.
- Disease-specific support groups
- General cancer survivorship group
- Caregiver support sessions
- Virtual attendance options
- Phone: 501-686-8000
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-686-8000
UAMS Patient and Family Housing
📍 Little Rock
UAMS offers a patient and family housing program for patients traveling to Little Rock for cancer treatment. The facility is near the medical campus, making it easy to get to appointments. Ask your UAMS social worker about availability — demand is high, so apply early.
- Affordable lodging near the cancer center
- Shuttle service to UAMS campus
- Social worker referral required
Who: UAMS cancer patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Reduced rates; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Arkansas Breast Cancer Foundation
📍 Little Rock
A local nonprofit dedicated to breast cancer education, early detection, and support for Arkansas women. They provide screening vouchers, educational programs, and connections to support resources. Their outreach extends to underserved communities across the state, including the Delta region.
- Screening vouchers for mammograms
- Educational workshops
- Community outreach programs
- Phone: 501-664-7304
Who: Women at risk for or diagnosed with breast cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-664-7304
UAMS Caregiver Support Program
📍 Little Rock (with telehealth options)
Dedicated support for the caregivers of cancer patients at UAMS. The program recognizes that caregivers face their own physical and emotional challenges and provides counseling, respite information, and peer connections. Telehealth options make it accessible to caregivers across the state.
- Individual caregiver counseling
- Caregiver support groups
- Respite care information
- Educational resources on caregiving
Who: Caregivers of cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Arkansas Hospice
📍 Little Rock (serves central AR)
The largest nonprofit hospice provider in Arkansas, offering end-of-life care, symptom management, and family support. Their services extend beyond the patient to include bereavement counseling for families for up to 13 months after a loss. They never turn away patients based on ability to pay.
- Hospice care at home, in facilities, or in their inpatient center
- Pain and symptom management
- Bereavement counseling and support groups
- Phone: 501-748-3333
Who: Patients with life-limiting illness and their families
Cost: Covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance; charity care available
Phone: 501-748-3333
Rock Region METRO — Medical Transport
📍 Little Rock / North Little Rock / Pulaski County
The public transit system in the Little Rock metro area offers paratransit services for disabled and elderly riders, which many cancer patients qualify for. Fixed routes connect to UAMS and Baptist Health campuses. Reduced fare programs are available for qualifying riders.
- Fixed-route bus service to medical campuses
- Paratransit for qualifying riders
- Reduced fares for elderly and disabled
- Phone: 501-375-1163
Who: Pulaski County residents
Cost: Regular fare; reduced for qualifying riders
Phone: 501-375-1163
Our House Shelter — Little Rock
📍 Little Rock
A comprehensive services center for people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity in central Arkansas. Cancer patients who have lost housing due to medical costs can access emergency shelter, meals, case management, and help finding stable housing. They work to address the root causes of homelessness.
- Emergency shelter and meals
- Case management services
- Housing assistance
- Phone: 501-374-7383
Who: Individuals and families experiencing homelessness
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-374-7383
Gilda’s Club — Central Arkansas (planned)
📍 Little Rock area
While Central Arkansas does not currently have a Gilda’s Club location, patients can access the national Cancer Support Community’s virtual programming. Online support groups, workshops, mind-body sessions, and educational webinars are all available free to Arkansas residents from any location.
- Virtual support groups
- Online mind-body wellness programs
- Educational webinars
- Phone: 1-888-793-9355
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-888-793-9355
Fayetteville & Northwest Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas is the state’s fastest-growing region, centered around Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville. It has strong healthcare infrastructure thanks in part to corporate philanthropy from major employers like Walmart and Tyson Foods.
Highlands Oncology Group
📍 Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville
The largest oncology practice in northwest Arkansas, offering comprehensive cancer treatment with extensive patient support. Their patient navigators, financial counselors, and social workers help patients access resources throughout the region. They also participate in clinical trials and survivorship programs.
- Patient navigation and social work
- Financial counseling and assistance programs
- Support groups
- Clinical trial access
- Phone: 479-587-1700
Who: Cancer patients in NW Arkansas
Cost: Support services free; financial assistance for treatment available
Phone: 479-587-1700
Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas — Cancer Center
📍 Rogers
Mercy’s cancer center in Rogers provides treatment and support services for patients throughout northwest Arkansas and beyond. Their patient support services include nurse navigation, social work, chaplaincy, and financial assistance programs. Mercy’s charity care program is among the most generous in the state.
- Nurse navigator program
- Social work and chaplain services
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Support groups and survivorship programs
- Phone: 479-338-8000
Who: Cancer patients in NW Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 479-338-8000
Washington Regional Cancer Support Home
📍 Fayetteville
Washington Regional Medical Center operates the Cancer Support Home in Fayetteville, offering a welcoming space for cancer patients and families to access support groups, wellness classes, nutritional counseling, and resource referrals. The home-like setting provides a comfortable environment separate from the clinical treatment area.
- Support groups (general and disease-specific)
- Wellness and fitness classes
- Nutritional counseling
- Resource library and referrals
- Phone: 479-463-1308
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 479-463-1308
Arkansas Children’s Northwest
📍 Springdale
The northwest Arkansas campus of Arkansas Children’s Hospital provides pediatric specialty care closer to home for families in the region. While complex pediatric oncology cases may still require travel to Little Rock, this facility offers outpatient services, follow-up care, and family support that reduces the travel burden for NW Arkansas families.
- Pediatric specialty outpatient care
- Family support and social work
- Care coordination with Little Rock campus
- Phone: 479-725-6800
Who: Children and adolescents needing specialty care
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 479-725-6800
Samaritan Community Center
📍 Rogers
Provides food assistance, a free health clinic, and social services for low-income families in NW Arkansas. Cancer patients facing food insecurity or needing basic healthcare for non-cancer issues can access their food pantry, free clinic, and case management services. They also help with utility and rent assistance.
- Food pantry (open multiple days per week)
- Free medical clinic
- Emergency financial assistance
- Phone: 479-636-4198
Who: Low-income families in NW Arkansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 479-636-4198
NWA Cancer Support Group Network
📍 Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville
Multiple cancer support groups meet regularly across northwest Arkansas, often hosted in hospitals, churches, and community centers. Groups include breast cancer survivors, general cancer support, and caregiver support. Contact the Washington Regional Cancer Support Home or Highlands Oncology for current schedules and locations.
- Breast cancer survivor groups
- General cancer support meetings
- Caregiver peer groups
- Various locations throughout NW Arkansas
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in NW Arkansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ozark Regional Transit
📍 NW Arkansas (Benton, Washington, Madison, Sebastian counties)
The regional public transit system in NW Arkansas offers fixed routes and demand-response service that can help cancer patients get to treatment appointments. Their paratransit service is available for eligible riders who cannot use fixed routes. Service covers the major cities in the region.
- Fixed-route bus service
- Demand-response paratransit
- Reduced fares for elderly and disabled
- Phone: 479-756-5901
Who: Residents of NW Arkansas service area
Cost: Low fare; reduced for qualifying riders
Phone: 479-756-5901
Fort Smith & River Valley
The River Valley region along the Arkansas River includes Fort Smith, Russellville, and surrounding communities. Patients here often split care between Arkansas and Oklahoma, and many rely on Mercy Health and Baptist Health facilities.
Mercy Hospital Fort Smith — Cancer Center
📍 Fort Smith
Mercy Fort Smith provides comprehensive cancer care for the River Valley region, including medical oncology, radiation, and surgical services. Their support team includes nurse navigators, social workers, chaplains, and financial counselors. Mercy’s charity care program helps uninsured and underinsured patients access treatment.
- Nurse navigator program
- Social work and chaplaincy
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Cancer support groups
- Phone: 479-314-6000
Who: Cancer patients in the River Valley
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 479-314-6000
Baptist Health Fort Smith — Cancer Care
📍 Fort Smith
Baptist Health provides cancer treatment and support services at their Fort Smith campus. Patient support includes navigation, social work, support groups, and financial counseling. Their nurse navigators help patients coordinate care and connect with community resources throughout the River Valley.
- Patient navigation
- Social work services
- Support groups
- Financial assistance programs
- Phone: 479-441-4000
Who: Cancer patients in Fort Smith area
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 479-441-4000
Antioch for Youth & Family — Fort Smith
📍 Fort Smith
A comprehensive community resource center offering food assistance, utility payment help, clothing, and referrals for families in the River Valley. Cancer patients and their families dealing with financial strain from treatment costs can access their food pantry, emergency assistance, and counseling services.
- Food pantry and emergency food boxes
- Utility and rent assistance
- Clothing closet
- Counseling services
- Phone: 479-782-1566
Who: Families in need in the River Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 479-782-1566
Saint Edward Mercy Cancer Support Groups
📍 Fort Smith
Support groups meeting at the Mercy Fort Smith campus for cancer patients and caregivers. Groups include breast cancer survivors, general cancer support, and Look Good Feel Better sessions. These groups provide peer connection that is especially important for patients in smaller communities who may feel isolated by their diagnosis.
- Breast cancer survivor group
- General cancer support group
- Look Good Feel Better sessions
- Contact Mercy Fort Smith social work for schedule
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center — Cancer Care
📍 Russellville
Serves the western Arkansas River Valley from Russellville, providing cancer treatment and support services. Their location helps patients in Pope, Yell, Johnson, and Conway counties avoid the longer drive to Little Rock or Fort Smith. Patient navigators and social workers connect patients to financial resources and community support.
- Cancer treatment services
- Patient navigation
- Financial assistance
- Phone: 479-968-2841
Who: Cancer patients in the western River Valley
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 479-968-2841
Fort Smith Transit
📍 Fort Smith
Fort Smith’s public bus system provides fixed-route service and paratransit for qualifying riders. Routes connect to Mercy and Baptist Health campuses. Cancer patients who qualify for ADA paratransit can schedule door-to-door service for treatment appointments.
- Fixed-route bus service
- ADA paratransit
- Reduced fares for elderly and disabled
- Phone: 479-783-6464
Who: Fort Smith residents
Cost: Low fare; reduced for qualifying riders
Phone: 479-783-6464
Jonesboro & Northeast Arkansas
Northeast Arkansas is centered around Jonesboro and includes communities along the Missouri border. Patients in this region may also access resources in Memphis, Tennessee, which is often closer than Little Rock.
St. Bernards Cancer Center
📍 Jonesboro
The primary cancer treatment center for northeast Arkansas, St. Bernards provides medical oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology with a full range of patient support services. Their cancer care team includes nurse navigators, social workers, and financial counselors who help patients in this largely rural region access resources and manage treatment logistics.
- Nurse navigator program
- Social work and resource referrals
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Cancer support groups
- Phone: 870-207-4100
Who: Cancer patients in NE Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 870-207-4100
NEA Baptist Cancer Center
📍 Jonesboro
NEA Baptist provides cancer treatment and support services at their Jonesboro campus. Their cancer care team includes patient navigators and social workers who connect patients with local and statewide resources. They also offer support groups and survivorship programming for the northeast Arkansas community.
- Patient navigation services
- Social work and resource referrals
- Financial assistance programs
- Survivorship programs
- Phone: 870-936-8000
Who: Cancer patients in NE Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 870-936-8000
Jonesboro Cancer Support Groups
📍 Jonesboro
Cancer support groups meet at various locations in Jonesboro, including hospital-based groups at St. Bernards and NEA Baptist. Groups include breast cancer survivors, general cancer support, and caregiver peer meetings. In a region where many patients feel isolated by their diagnosis, these groups provide essential connection and shared understanding.
- Breast cancer support group
- General cancer survivors group
- Caregiver peer support
- Contact hospital social work departments for schedules
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas
📍 Jonesboro (serves NE Arkansas)
Distributes food through partner agencies across northeast Arkansas. Cancer patients dealing with food insecurity can access partner pantries in their community. Their mobile food distributions reach rural areas where traditional pantries do not exist.
- Food pantry network across NE Arkansas
- Mobile food distributions
- SNAP application assistance
- Phone: 870-932-3663
Who: Anyone facing food insecurity in NE Arkansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 870-932-3663
JET (Jonesboro Economical Transit)
📍 Jonesboro
Jonesboro’s public transit system provides fixed-route bus service and demand-response transportation throughout the city. Cancer patients can use JET to reach St. Bernards, NEA Baptist, and other medical facilities. Reduced fares are available for elderly and disabled riders.
- Fixed-route bus service
- Demand-response paratransit
- Routes to major medical facilities
- Phone: 870-935-5387
Who: Jonesboro residents
Cost: Low fare; reduced for qualifying riders
Phone: 870-935-5387
Pine Bluff & Southeast Arkansas
Southeast Arkansas faces some of the steepest health challenges in the state. Pine Bluff and surrounding communities have high poverty rates, limited healthcare access, and significant cancer disparities — particularly among Black residents. Most advanced cancer care requires travel to Little Rock.
Jefferson Regional Medical Center — Cancer Care
📍 Pine Bluff
The primary hospital serving Pine Bluff and southeast Arkansas, providing cancer screening, treatment, and support services. Their social work team helps patients navigate the financial challenges of cancer care and connects them with local and statewide resources. Financial assistance is available for qualifying patients.
- Cancer screening and treatment
- Social work and resource referrals
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Phone: 870-541-7100
Who: Cancer patients in SE Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 870-541-7100
UAMS Southeast Regional Campus
📍 Pine Bluff
UAMS operates a regional campus in Pine Bluff that extends cancer care access to southeast Arkansas. Through telemedicine connections to the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, patients can access oncology consultations without traveling to Little Rock. Community health workers help connect patients in the Delta to resources and care.
- Telemedicine oncology consultations
- Community health worker outreach
- Connection to UAMS clinical trials
- Resource navigation
Who: Cancer patients in SE Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available through UAMS
Phone: 2-1-1
Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corporation
📍 Pine Bluff (serves SE Arkansas)
A community action agency providing emergency assistance, food programs, utility help, and other support services for low-income residents of southeast Arkansas. Cancer patients struggling with basic needs while in treatment can access food, utility payment assistance, and case management.
- Emergency food assistance
- Utility payment help (LIHEAP)
- Case management services
- Phone: 870-536-4777
Who: Low-income residents of SE Arkansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 870-536-4777
Pine Bluff Cancer Support Network
📍 Pine Bluff
Community-based cancer support groups meeting in Pine Bluff, often at churches and community centers. These groups are especially important in a community where cancer disparities are significant and access to formal support services is limited. Many groups are led by survivors who understand the local challenges.
- Peer support meetings
- Church-based cancer ministries
- Survivor-led outreach
- Contact Jefferson Regional social work for referrals
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in Pine Bluff area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Hot Springs & Ouachita Region
The Ouachita region of west-central Arkansas includes Hot Springs, Mena, and surrounding communities in the mountainous terrain. The area has a significant retirement population and limited specialty medical services, meaning many cancer patients travel to Little Rock.
CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs — Cancer Care
📍 Hot Springs
CHI St. Vincent’s Hot Springs campus provides cancer treatment and support services for the Ouachita region. Their mission-driven charity care program ensures no patient is turned away for inability to pay. Patient navigators and social workers connect patients to community resources and help coordinate care with Little Rock specialists when needed.
- Cancer treatment services
- Patient navigation
- Financial assistance and charity care
- Spiritual care services
- Phone: 501-622-1000
Who: Cancer patients in the Ouachita region
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 501-622-1000
National Park Medical Center — Cancer Services
📍 Hot Springs
National Park Medical Center offers cancer screening, treatment, and support at their Hot Springs campus. With a large retiree population in the area, they see significant cancer volume and offer support groups, navigation services, and financial counseling to help patients and their families.
- Cancer treatment and screening
- Patient support services
- Financial assistance
- Phone: 501-321-1000
Who: Cancer patients in Hot Springs area
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 501-321-1000
Hot Springs Village Cancer Support Group
📍 Hot Springs Village
A community-based cancer support group serving the large retirement community of Hot Springs Village and surrounding areas. The group provides peer support, shared information, and social connection for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. Meeting regularly in a comfortable community setting, they help combat the isolation that cancer can bring.
- Regular peer support meetings
- Guest speaker programs
- Social activities and connection
- Caregiver welcome
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in Hot Springs Village area
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Jackson House — Hot Springs
📍 Hot Springs
A nonprofit providing emergency food, clothing, utility assistance, and other basic needs support for Garland County residents. Cancer patients and families experiencing financial hardship from medical costs can access their food pantry, emergency financial assistance, and referral services.
- Emergency food assistance
- Utility and rent help
- Clothing closet
- Phone: 501-624-7025
Who: Garland County residents in need
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-624-7025
Texarkana & Southwest Arkansas
Southwest Arkansas borders Texas and Louisiana, and the Texarkana metro area straddles the state line. Patients in this region often access resources in both Arkansas and Texas. The area is largely rural with limited oncology services, meaning many patients travel significant distances for treatment.
CHRISTUS St. Michael Cancer Center
📍 Texarkana
The primary cancer treatment center serving the Texarkana area and surrounding communities in both Arkansas and Texas. They offer medical oncology, radiation therapy, and support services including patient navigation, social work, and financial counseling. Their location on the state line means they serve patients from both states.
- Comprehensive cancer treatment
- Patient navigation
- Social work and resource referrals
- Financial assistance
- Phone: 903-614-1000
Who: Cancer patients in the Texarkana region
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 903-614-1000
Wadley Regional Medical Center — Cancer Services
📍 Texarkana
Wadley Regional provides cancer treatment services in Texarkana, offering an alternative to CHRISTUS for patients in southwest Arkansas. They provide patient support services, financial assistance, and connections to community resources. Social workers can help patients navigate the complexities of living on the state line.
- Cancer treatment services
- Patient support and social work
- Financial assistance
- Phone: 903-798-8000
Who: Cancer patients in Texarkana area
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 903-798-8000
Medical Center of South Arkansas — Cancer Services
📍 El Dorado
Serves the south-central Arkansas region from El Dorado, providing cancer treatment and support services. Their location helps patients in Union, Columbia, and surrounding counties avoid the long drive to Little Rock or Texarkana. Patient support includes social work, navigation, and financial assistance.
- Cancer treatment services
- Social work and navigation
- Financial assistance
- Phone: 870-863-2000
Who: Cancer patients in south-central Arkansas
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 870-863-2000
Harvest Regional Food Bank
📍 Texarkana (serves SW Arkansas)
The primary food bank serving southwest Arkansas and northeast Texas, distributing food through a network of partner agencies. Their service area includes some of the most food-insecure communities in the region. Cancer patients dealing with food insecurity can find partner pantries in their community.
- Partner food pantry network
- Mobile food distributions
- SNAP application help
- Phone: 903-832-1729
Who: Anyone facing food insecurity in SW Arkansas/NE Texas
Cost: Free
Phone: 903-832-1729
Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter — Texarkana
📍 Texarkana
A comprehensive shelter providing emergency housing, meals, and support services for individuals and families in crisis in the Texarkana area. Cancer patients who have lost housing due to medical costs or who need temporary shelter while receiving treatment can access their services.
- Emergency shelter and meals
- Case management
- Transitional housing assistance
- Phone: 903-794-9199
Who: Individuals and families in crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: 903-794-9199
Rural Delta Arkansas
The Arkansas Delta — the flat, agricultural region along the Mississippi River — faces the deepest health disparities in the state. Poverty rates exceed 30% in many Delta counties. Cancer patients here often travel 60-100+ miles for treatment and may lack reliable transportation, insurance, or even a nearby primary care physician.
UAMS East Regional Campus — Helena
📍 Helena-West Helena
UAMS operates a regional campus in Helena to extend healthcare access into the Delta. Through telemedicine, community health workers, and outreach programs, they connect Delta residents with cancer screening, prevention education, and referrals to the UAMS Cancer Institute in Little Rock. Their community health workers are trusted members of the community who help patients navigate the healthcare system.
- Telemedicine cancer consultations
- Community health worker outreach
- Cancer screening coordination
- Care navigation and referrals to Little Rock
Who: Delta region residents
Cost: Financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Lee County Cooperative Clinic
📍 Marianna (serves Lee, Phillips, Monroe, and St. Francis counties)
A federally qualified health center (FQHC) providing primary care, screening, and care coordination in the heart of the Delta. As an FQHC, they use a sliding fee scale based on income. For cancer patients in the Delta, they serve as a crucial access point for screening, referrals, and coordination of care with specialists in Little Rock or Memphis.
- Cancer screening and referrals
- Sliding fee scale based on income
- Care coordination with specialists
- Phone: 870-295-3247
Who: Delta region residents, regardless of ability to pay
Cost: Sliding fee scale; no one turned away
Phone: 870-295-3247
East Arkansas Family Health Center
📍 West Memphis, Earle, Forrest City
An FQHC serving the eastern Delta with primary care, cancer screening, and care coordination. With locations in West Memphis, Earle, and Forrest City, they provide critical access points in a region where private medical practices are scarce. Patients needing cancer treatment are helped with referrals to Jonesboro, Little Rock, or Memphis facilities.
- Cancer screening and early detection
- Sliding fee scale
- Care coordination and referrals
- Phone: 870-735-6480
Who: Eastern Delta residents
Cost: Sliding fee scale based on income
Phone: 870-735-6480
Delta Area Rural Transit System (DARTS)
📍 Eastern Arkansas Delta region
A demand-response rural transit service covering several Delta counties. DARTS can transport cancer patients to medical appointments, including trips to larger cities for treatment. Call ahead to schedule rides — advance notice is required. This is one of the few transportation options available to rural Delta residents without personal vehicles.
- Demand-response medical transportation
- Service across multiple Delta counties
- Advance scheduling required
- Reduced fares for elderly and disabled
Who: Delta county residents
Cost: Low fare; reduced for qualifying riders
Phone: 2-1-1
Arkansas Rice Depot / Feeding America — Delta Programs
📍 Delta counties
Food distribution programs serving the Delta region, where food insecurity rates are among the highest in the nation. Their Food for Kids backpack program and senior food boxes reach families and elderly residents who may be managing cancer alongside hunger. Mobile pantry distributions travel to communities without a permanent food pantry.
- Food pantry partner network in Delta counties
- Mobile food pantry distributions
- Senior food boxes (CSFP)
- Food for Kids backpack program
Who: Anyone facing food insecurity in the Delta
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Delta Community Health Workers Network
📍 Delta counties
Community health workers (CHWs) embedded in Delta communities help residents navigate the healthcare system, access cancer screening, arrange transportation, and connect with social services. Often trained through UAMS programs, these CHWs are trusted community members who bridge the gap between rural residents and the healthcare system. Ask your local health department or clinic about CHW services in your county.
- Healthcare navigation assistance
- Screening coordination
- Transportation help
- Social services connections
Who: Delta community residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Additional Statewide & National Resources
These national organizations serve Arkansas patients by phone, online, or through local partners. Many are diagnosis-specific and can fill gaps that local resources may not cover.
NeedyMeds
📍 Statewide (online)
A comprehensive database of patient assistance programs, free and low-cost clinics, and drug discount programs. Their drug discount card is free and accepted at most pharmacies. For Arkansas cancer patients struggling with medication costs, this site can identify manufacturer assistance programs and copay cards for specific drugs.
- Drug discount card (free)
- Database of patient assistance programs
- Free/low-cost clinic finder
- Phone: 800-503-6897
Who: Anyone needing help with medication or healthcare costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-503-6897
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — Arkansas
📍 Statewide
LLS provides financial assistance, educational resources, and support for blood cancer patients and their families throughout Arkansas. Their Information Specialists are trained oncology professionals who can answer disease-specific questions and help patients understand treatment options and clinical trials.
- Financial assistance for blood cancer patients
- Information Resource Center: 800-955-4572
- Peer-to-peer support matching
- First Connection program for newly diagnosed
Who: Blood cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-955-4572
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Arkansas has among the highest colorectal cancer rates in the nation. This alliance provides peer-to-peer support through trained “Buddy” volunteers who have been through similar experiences, patient navigation, and financial assistance for screening and treatment. Their helpline connects patients with support specialists.
- Buddy program peer matching
- Patient navigation assistance
- Financial assistance for screening
- Helpline: 877-422-2030
Who: Colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-422-2030
LUNGevity Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Arkansas has one of the highest lung cancer rates in the country. LUNGevity provides support, education, and connections for lung cancer patients regardless of smoking history. Their peer-to-peer mentoring program matches patients with survivors, and their LifeLine screening navigation program helps patients access lung cancer screening.
- Peer-to-peer mentor matching
- Lung cancer screening navigation
- Online support community
- Phone: 844-586-4388
Who: Lung cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 844-586-4388
The SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides grants and scholarships to young adult cancer survivors ages 17-39 who are dealing with the financial impact of a cancer diagnosis during a critical period of educational and career development. Grants can be used for living expenses, medical bills, education costs, and other needs.
- Financial assistance grants
- Scholarships for education
- Support for ages 17-39
- Online application process
Who: Young adult cancer survivors (ages 17-39)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — Referrals
📍 Memphis, TN (accessible from eastern AR)
St. Jude in Memphis is within driving distance of much of eastern and central Arkansas. Families of children with cancer are never billed for treatment, travel, housing, or food at St. Jude. If your child has been diagnosed with cancer, ask your pediatric oncologist about a St. Jude referral — the distance from Arkansas is manageable with their family support services.
- No-cost treatment for accepted patients
- Travel and housing covered for families
- Physician referral required
- Phone: 866-278-5833
Who: Children with cancer (physician referral required)
Cost: Free — families never billed
Phone: 866-278-5833
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation — Travel for Care
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides travel grants to help families of children with cancer get to treatment. Their Travel for Care program covers flights, gas, hotel, and meals for families traveling to specialized pediatric cancer centers. Especially important for rural Arkansas families needing to reach Little Rock, Memphis, or other major centers.
- Travel grants for pediatric cancer families
- Covers transport, lodging, and meals
- Online application process
- Quick turnaround on approvals
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Good Days (formerly Chronic Disease Fund)
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides financial assistance for copays, premiums, diagnostics, and treatment costs. They maintain diagnosis-specific funds and offer a travel assistance program for patients who must travel to receive treatment. Particularly relevant for rural Arkansas patients facing both drug costs and transportation expenses.
- Copay and premium assistance
- Travel assistance program
- Diagnosis-specific funds
- Phone: 877-968-7233
Who: Insured patients who cannot afford treatment costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-968-7233
Stupid Cancer
📍 Statewide (online/app)
The largest community for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients and survivors ages 15-39. Their app and online community connect young Arkansans with peers who understand what it is like to face cancer during school, early career, dating, and family-building years. Particularly valuable when local support groups skew older.
- Online community and app
- Virtual meetups and events
- Podcast and educational content
- Advocacy and awareness
Who: Cancer patients and survivors ages 15-39
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Matches cancer patients and caregivers one-on-one with “Mentor Angels” — survivors and caregivers who have been through the same cancer type. The mentor relationship provides emotional support, practical advice, and hope from someone who truly understands. Matches are based on cancer type, age, gender, and other factors.
- One-on-one mentor matching
- Cancer-specific pairing
- Caregiver mentoring available
- Phone: 866-463-7626
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-463-7626
Family Reach
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides financial grants directly to cancer patients and families for non-medical costs that threaten their ability to continue treatment — rent, utilities, car payments, groceries, and other household expenses. Their Financial Planning for Cancer program also provides free sessions with certified financial planners.
- Financial grants for household expenses
- Free financial planning for cancer patients
- Resource navigation
- Phone: 973-394-1411
Who: Cancer patients and families facing financial hardship
Cost: Free
Phone: 973-394-1411
Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic / Angel Flight South Central
📍 Statewide
Volunteer pilots provide free air transportation for cancer patients who need to travel long distances for treatment. Given Arkansas’s mountainous terrain and the concentration of specialty cancer care in Little Rock, free flights can be transformative for patients in remote areas. Patients must be able to walk and sit upright.
- Free flights for medical treatment
- Volunteer pilot network
- Must be ambulatory
- Advance scheduling required
Who: Ambulatory patients needing long-distance medical transport
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Caregiver Action Network
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides education, peer support, and resources specifically for family caregivers. Their helpline is staffed by people who understand caregiver burnout. They offer a caregiver toolkit with practical information about managing medications, communicating with medical teams, and taking care of yourself while caring for someone with cancer.
- Caregiver Help Desk: 855-227-3640
- Online peer support forum
- Caregiver toolkit and educational resources
- Self-care guidance
Who: Family caregivers of cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 855-227-3640
Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)
📍 Statewide (phone/virtual)
A national program providing free information and resources on cancer-related legal issues. Their telephone assistance line helps Arkansas cancer patients understand their rights regarding employment, insurance, government benefits, and estate planning. They do not provide legal representation but connect patients with attorneys when needed.
- Free legal information hotline: 866-843-2572
- Employment rights guidance
- Insurance dispute information
- Educational webinars
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-843-2572
ZERO — The End of Prostate Cancer
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
ZERO provides support, education, and advocacy for prostate cancer patients and families. Their peer-to-peer support connects newly diagnosed men with survivors. They also offer free PSA screening events through local partnerships and can help patients understand treatment options and side effects.
- Peer support matching
- Free screening events
- Educational resources
- Helpline: 844-244-1309
Who: Prostate cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 844-244-1309
Triage Cancer — Financial & Legal Resources
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides education on the practical and legal issues that come with a cancer diagnosis. Their materials cover health insurance, disability rights, employment, financial assistance, and estate planning. They host free webinars and have a comprehensive online resource library.
- Health insurance navigation guides
- Disability rights education
- Financial assistance resource database
- Free educational webinars
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN)
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
PanCAN provides one-on-one case management, clinical trial matching, and peer connections for pancreatic cancer patients. Their Patient Services team includes trained professionals who help patients navigate treatment options and access resources. Given pancreatic cancer’s aggressive nature, their rapid response is invaluable.
- Patient Services: 877-272-6226
- Clinical trial finder (Know Your Tumor)
- Peer-to-peer survivor network
- Financial assistance referrals
Who: Pancreatic cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-272-6226
Head and Neck Cancer Alliance
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides support and resources for patients with head and neck cancers, which are elevated in Arkansas due to high tobacco use rates. Their support services include peer mentoring, educational materials, and connections to clinical trials. They also focus on survivorship issues like speech and swallowing rehabilitation.
- Patient and caregiver support resources
- Peer mentoring program
- Survivorship resource guide
- Clinical trial information
Who: Head and neck cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
RxAssist
📍 Statewide (online)
A comprehensive database of pharmaceutical manufacturer patient assistance programs, state programs, and other resources that help patients afford medications. For cancer patients in Arkansas taking expensive specialty drugs, this tool can identify programs that dramatically reduce or eliminate drug costs.
- Database of drug assistance programs
- Manufacturer patient assistance program directory
- State and federal program information
Who: Anyone needing help affording medications
Cost: Free to search
Phone: 2-1-1
Cervivor
📍 Statewide (online)
A community of cervical cancer survivors and advocates providing peer support, education, and stigma-free connection. Arkansas has higher-than-average cervical cancer rates, making this resource particularly relevant. Their online community helps patients feel less alone and their Ambassador program trains survivors to educate their communities.
- Online peer community
- Survivor stories and education
- Ambassador program
- Stigma-free support
Who: Cervical cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)
📍 Statewide (online)
A coalition of organizations that help cancer patients manage their financial challenges. Their searchable database lets you find assistance by cancer type, financial need, and location. It is one of the best starting points for finding financial help, as it aggregates programs from dozens of organizations in one place.
- Searchable financial assistance database
- Filters by cancer type and need
- Links directly to application pages
Who: Cancer patients seeking financial assistance
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
American Childhood Cancer Organization
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides information, support, and advocacy for children and adolescents with cancer and their families. Their resources include books for children explaining cancer, family support guides, and connections to local and national support programs. Particularly helpful for Arkansas families navigating a child’s diagnosis for the first time.
- Educational materials for families
- Children’s books about cancer
- Family support resources
- Phone: 855-858-2226
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 855-858-2226
Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs
📍 Statewide (county service officers)
The state veterans affairs department maintains county veterans service officers across Arkansas who help veterans file disability claims, access VA healthcare, and connect with state benefits. For veterans diagnosed with cancer — especially those with service-connected exposures — these service officers can be invaluable in navigating the claims process.
- Disability claims assistance
- VA healthcare enrollment help
- State veteran benefits
- County service officers statewide
- Phone: 501-370-3820
Who: Arkansas veterans
Cost: Free
Phone: 501-370-3820
UAMS Center for Diversity Affairs — Health Disparities Programs
📍 Statewide
UAMS’s diversity and health equity programs work to address cancer disparities among minority communities in Arkansas. They coordinate community outreach, culturally competent care initiatives, and research programs that reach into underserved communities — particularly Black and Hispanic communities in the Delta and urban areas — to improve cancer outcomes.
- Community outreach and education
- Culturally competent resource referrals
- Health disparities research participation
- Connection to minority health programs
Who: Minority and underserved communities
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Arkansas Community Health Centers (FQHCs)
📍 Statewide (multiple locations)
Arkansas has a network of federally qualified health centers that provide care regardless of ability to pay. These centers offer cancer screening, preventive services, and care coordination for patients who need referrals to cancer specialists. They use sliding fee scales based on income and accept Medicaid, Medicare, and uninsured patients.
- Cancer screening and preventive care
- Sliding fee scale based on income
- Care coordination and referrals
- No one turned away for inability to pay
Who: Anyone, regardless of insurance or income
Cost: Sliding fee scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides support, education, and community for ovarian cancer patients and survivors. Their Woman to Woman peer support program matches newly diagnosed patients with trained survivor volunteers. They also maintain a comprehensive online resource center and offer financial assistance referrals.
- Woman to Woman peer matching
- Online support community
- Patient navigation
- Helpline: 866-399-6262
Who: Ovarian cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-399-6262
Neighboring State Resources
Arkansas borders six states. Depending on where you live, resources in a neighboring state may be closer or better suited to your needs.
Neighboring State Guide
Missouri Cancer Resources
📍 Northern border
Patients in northern Arkansas — particularly near Harrison, Mountain Home, or the Missouri border — may find that cancer resources in Springfield or Branson, Missouri are closer than those in Little Rock. The Mercy system operates on both sides of the state line, making cross-state care coordination easier.
Neighboring State Guide
Tennessee Cancer Resources
📍 Eastern border (Memphis area)
Memphis, Tennessee is often the closest major medical center for patients in eastern Arkansas and the Delta region. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and West Cancer Center are all accessible from the Arkansas Delta. If you are in the eastern part of the state, Memphis resources may be your best option.
Neighboring State Guide
Mississippi Cancer Resources
📍 Eastern border
The Arkansas and Mississippi Deltas share similar health challenges. While Mississippi has limited cancer resources of its own, the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson and regional hospitals may serve patients near the state line. Cross-state collaboration on Delta health issues continues to grow.
Neighboring State Guide
Texas Cancer Resources
📍 Southwest border (Texarkana area)
Texarkana sits on the Arkansas-Texas border, and patients in southwest Arkansas regularly access care on the Texas side. CHRISTUS St. Michael and other Texarkana facilities serve patients from both states. For more specialized care, Dallas-area cancer centers are also within reach.
Neighboring State Guide
Louisiana Cancer Resources
📍 Southern border
Patients in south Arkansas — particularly near El Dorado, Magnolia, or Camden — may find resources in northern Louisiana accessible. LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner Health are options for patients willing to cross the state line. Louisiana also has strong cancer support networks that extend into border communities.
Neighboring State Guide
Oklahoma Cancer Resources
📍 Western border
Patients in western Arkansas near Fort Smith or the Oklahoma border may access cancer care at the Stephenson Cancer Center (NCI-designated) in Oklahoma City or resources in eastern Oklahoma. Oklahoma also has tribal health resources that may serve eligible patients in the border region.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you are overwhelmed and do not know which resource to call first, try one of these:
- American Cancer Society Helpline: 1-800-227-2345 (24/7, speaks multiple languages)
- Arkansas 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone for local resource connections
- CancerCare: 800-813-4673 (free counseling with oncology social workers)
- Your hospital’s social worker: Ask at your next appointment — they know local resources better than anyone
- UAMS Cancer Institute: 501-686-8000 (the state’s only NCI-designated cancer center)
You do not have to figure this out alone. Every organization on this list exists because someone wanted to help people like you.