Cancer Support Resources in California
California’s sheer size means cancer care access varies dramatically — from world-class centers in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego to significant gaps in the Central Valley and rural Northern California. Farmworker communities in the San Joaquin Valley and inland desert communities face added barriers of language, transportation, and limited insurance. This directory covers support services for patients, survivors, and families across the Golden State.
California is home to some of the nation’s most renowned cancer treatment centers, yet the state’s sheer geographic vastness creates significant disparities in access. Patients in the Central Valley and Northern California’s rural communities often travel hours to reach specialized care. The high cost of living — particularly in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego — makes financial assistance especially critical for cancer patients facing treatment costs, lost wages, and housing insecurity.
The agricultural heartland of the San Joaquin Valley carries a cancer burden that rarely makes headlines. Farmworker communities in Fresno, Tulare, Kings, and Kern counties face occupational pesticide exposures linked to elevated cancer risks, compounded by chronic poverty, lack of health insurance, and undocumented immigration status that make a diagnosis a financial catastrophe on top of a medical one. Federally qualified health centers are often the first and only point of medical contact in towns like Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, and Salinas — and in many cases the only realistic option for patients who cannot afford specialist fees even at reduced rates.
Northern California presents a different geography of need. The vast rural corridor stretching from the Shasta Cascade region through the Redwood Coast and Sierra Nevada foothills can be three or more hours from any NCI-designated cancer center. Tribal nations including the Yurok, Karuk, Hoopa Valley, and Pomo peoples face compounded barriers — Indian Health Service facilities have limited oncology capacity, historical distrust of the healthcare system has contributed to lower screening rates, and winter road conditions can cut off communities entirely. UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento serves as the primary hub for much of this region, and its outreach programs reach into communities that larger coastal centers cannot.
California maintains one of the most extensive cancer-related public benefit systems in the nation. Medi-Cal covers treatment for millions of low-income residents, and the Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program provides free care to uninsured women diagnosed through state-funded screening programs. Patient navigators at community health centers help patients enroll in coverage, obtain specialist authorizations, and navigate the bureaucratic hurdles that can delay treatment by weeks. The California Department of Health Care Services also funds targeted programs for underserved communities that go beyond what the standard Medicaid framework provides.
With one of the most diverse populations in the country, California’s cancer patients face unique language barriers. Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog are widely spoken, and many of the resources listed below offer multilingual services. Additionally, California has one of the largest uninsured populations in the nation, making navigation of Medi-Cal and marketplace insurance options a vital part of the support landscape. This guide connects you with over 100 local, regional, and statewide organizations dedicated to helping Californians through every stage of the cancer journey.
How This Guide Works
Use the filter buttons or search bar below to find resources by category or keyword. Each listing includes a description of services, eligibility details, and a direct link. Resources are organized by region so you can find help close to home — from statewide programs to neighborhood-level support groups. Whether you need financial help, transportation, legal advice, or a community of people who understand what you’re going through, this guide is here to help.
Showing all 104 resources
Statewide Resources
Programs and services available to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers throughout California regardless of where they live.
American Cancer Society – California
📍 Statewide (multiple offices)
The ACS California division operates a 24/7 helpline, patient navigation services, and extensive support programming across the state. Their trained specialists can connect patients with local resources, clinical trials, and financial assistance programs tailored to individual needs.
- 24/7 cancer information helpline (1-800-227-2345)
- Road To Recovery transportation program
- Hope Lodge accommodations in Duarte
- Patient navigator referrals
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in California
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
California Cancer Registry (CCR)
📍 Sacramento, CA (serves statewide)
Managed by the California Department of Public Health, the CCR collects data on cancer incidence and mortality across the state. Patients and advocates can access cancer statistics by county, ethnicity, and cancer type to better understand their diagnosis in a California context.
- Cancer incidence and survival data by county
- Health disparity reports
- Research data requests
Who: Researchers, patients, and public health professionals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)
📍 Los Angeles, CA (serves statewide and nationally)
A joint program of the Disability Rights Legal Center and Loyola Law School, the CLRC provides free information and resources on cancer-related legal issues. Their telephone assistance line connects patients with attorneys who understand the intersection of cancer and the law.
- Insurance coverage and denial appeals
- Employment rights during treatment
- Estate planning and advance directives
- Government benefits navigation
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers needing legal guidance
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
California Health & Disability Insurance Counseling (HICAP)
📍 Statewide (county-based offices)
HICAP counselors provide free, unbiased help understanding Medicare, Medi-Cal, and supplemental insurance options. For cancer patients navigating the complexities of treatment coverage, HICAP’s trained volunteers can be an invaluable resource in cutting through insurance jargon.
- Medicare enrollment and plan comparison
- Medi-Cal eligibility screening
- Insurance claims and appeals assistance
Who: Medicare beneficiaries and those needing insurance guidance
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
California Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program (BCCTP)
📍 Statewide
This Medi-Cal program provides full-scope cancer treatment coverage for uninsured and underinsured individuals diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through qualifying screening programs. BCCTP removes one of the largest barriers to treatment — cost — for some of the state’s most vulnerable patients.
- Full Medi-Cal benefits during cancer treatment
- No-cost cancer treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation
- Prescription drug coverage
Who: Uninsured/underinsured individuals diagnosed through qualifying programs
Cost: Free (Medi-Cal enrolled)
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community – California
📍 Multiple locations statewide
With affiliates in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Pasadena, Redondo Beach, and the Central Coast, Cancer Support Community offers professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, and wellness programs. All services follow an evidence-based model that addresses the emotional, social, and practical needs of cancer patients and their loved ones.
- Weekly support groups (in-person and virtual)
- Stress reduction and mindfulness workshops
- Nutrition and exercise programs
- Caregiver-specific support groups
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation – California Services
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
PAF case managers work one-on-one with California cancer patients to resolve insurance access issues, manage medical debt, and connect them with co-pay assistance programs. Their Co-Pay Relief program offers direct financial aid for qualifying patients.
- Insurance appeal and denial assistance
- Co-pay relief fund
- Medical debt crisis intervention
Who: Insured and underinsured cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
PADRES Contra El Cancer
📍 Los Angeles, CA (serves statewide)
Founded to serve Latino families, PADRES Contra El Cancer provides bilingual support programs for children with cancer and their parents. Their culturally sensitive approach includes hospital-based navigation, family retreats, and bereavement services in both English and Spanish.
- Bilingual patient navigation at partnering hospitals
- Family camp retreats
- Bereavement support groups
- Emergency financial assistance
Who: Latino families with children diagnosed with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
VA California Healthcare System – Oncology Services
📍 Statewide (VA facilities in Palo Alto, Long Beach, San Diego, San Francisco, Loma Linda, Sacramento, Fresno)
California’s VA medical centers provide comprehensive oncology care including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and palliative services. Eligible veterans can access cancer screenings, treatment, and survivorship programs at no cost through the VA healthcare system.
- Full cancer treatment services
- Veteran-specific support groups
- Palliative and hospice care
- Caregiver support programs
Who: Eligible U.S. military veterans
Cost: Free or low-cost for eligible veterans
Phone: 2-1-1
Angel Flight West
📍 Santa Monica, CA (serves western U.S.)
Volunteer pilots donate their time and aircraft to fly cancer patients to treatment centers across the western United States, free of charge. This is a lifeline for rural Californians who must travel hundreds of miles for specialized oncology care.
- Free air transportation to treatment
- Serves patients within 1,000-mile radius
- Companion may fly with patient
Who: Patients who cannot afford or are unable to fly commercially
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – California Chapters
📍 Statewide (chapters in LA, San Francisco, San Diego, Orange County)
LLS provides disease-specific support for blood cancer patients across California, including financial assistance, peer-to-peer mentoring, and access to clinical trial information. Their First Connection program matches newly diagnosed patients with trained volunteers who have faced similar diagnoses.
- Financial aid for treatment-related costs
- First Connection peer mentoring
- Free educational materials and webinars
- Clinical trial nurse navigators
Who: Blood cancer patients and their families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Covered California – Cancer Patient Enrollment Assistance
📍 Statewide
California’s health insurance marketplace helps uninsured cancer patients find affordable coverage. Certified enrollment counselors are available in every county and can assist with special enrollment periods triggered by a cancer diagnosis, as well as financial assistance to reduce monthly premiums.
- Special enrollment period for qualifying life events
- Premium assistance and subsidies
- In-person enrollment help in multiple languages
Who: Uninsured Californians, including cancer patients
Cost: Free enrollment assistance; plan costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
CancerCare – California Counseling Services
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Licensed oncology social workers provide free professional counseling to California cancer patients and their families via phone and video. CancerCare also offers support groups, educational workshops, and limited financial assistance for treatment-related expenses.
- Individual and group counseling
- Online support groups
- Financial co-pay assistance
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and the bereaved
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Los Angeles & Southern California
Support services in the greater Los Angeles metro area, including the San Fernando Valley, South Bay, Westside, and surrounding communities.
City of Hope – Patient Support Services
📍 Duarte, CA
One of the nation’s top NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers, City of Hope offers an extensive array of supportive care services alongside cutting-edge treatment. Their Department of Supportive Care Medicine addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs through an integrated team approach.
- Psychosocial support and counseling
- Integrative medicine (acupuncture, massage, music therapy)
- Patient and family education
- Survivorship programs
Who: City of Hope patients and their families
Cost: Varies; many services free to patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Cancer Center – Support Programs
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Cedars-Sinai’s cancer center provides a holistic support framework that includes social work services, genetic counseling, and a cancer survivorship clinic. Their wellness programs help patients manage treatment side effects and maintain quality of life during and after therapy.
- Oncology social workers
- Cancer rehabilitation program
- Genetic counseling and risk assessment
- Palliative care consultations
Who: Cedars-Sinai cancer patients
Cost: Covered under treatment; some programs free
Phone: 2-1-1
UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center – Patient & Family Services
📍 Los Angeles, CA
UCLA’s NCI-designated cancer center offers support groups, wellness classes, and patient navigation tailored to different cancer types. Their Simms/Mann Center for Integrative Oncology provides free psychosocial services including individual therapy, couples counseling, and art therapy.
- Simms/Mann Center free counseling
- Disease-specific support groups
- Nutrition consultations
- Clinical trial navigation
Who: UCLA cancer patients and community members
Cost: Free for many support services
Phone: 2-1-1
Wellness Community – South Bay (now Cancer Support Community South Bay)
📍 Redondo Beach, CA
This community-based center provides a warm, home-like environment where cancer patients and caregivers gather for support groups, educational lectures, and wellness activities. Programs run throughout the week, making it easy to find a time that works around treatment schedules.
- Professionally facilitated support groups
- Yoga, tai chi, and meditation classes
- Healthy cooking demonstrations
Who: South Bay area cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Hope Lodge – Duarte (American Cancer Society)
📍 Duarte, CA
Located near City of Hope, this ACS Hope Lodge provides free temporary housing for cancer patients traveling to the area for treatment. Guests receive a private room with a shared kitchen, laundry facilities, and a supportive community of fellow patients.
- Free lodging during treatment
- Shuttle service to nearby treatment centers
- Community activities and meals
Who: Cancer patients traveling 40+ miles for treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community – Pasadena
📍 Pasadena, CA
Serving the San Gabriel Valley since 1994, this affiliate provides a robust calendar of weekly support groups organized by cancer type and life stage. Their community garden and art studio offer creative outlets for processing the cancer experience.
- Cancer-type specific groups (breast, prostate, lung, etc.)
- Young adult cancer group
- Expressive arts therapy
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers in the San Gabriel Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank – Cancer Patient Assistance
📍 Los Angeles, CA
The LA Regional Food Bank distributes meals and groceries through a network of over 600 partner agencies across Los Angeles County. Cancer patients undergoing treatment can access specialized nutrition boxes and locate their nearest distribution site through the food bank’s online tool.
- Weekly grocery distribution sites
- Home-delivered meals for homebound patients
- CalFresh (SNAP) enrollment assistance
Who: Low-income individuals in Los Angeles County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles – Cancer and Blood Disease Institute
📍 Los Angeles, CA
CHLA’s Cancer and Blood Disease Institute is one of the largest pediatric oncology programs in the country. Beyond clinical care, they offer child life specialists, school re-entry programs, and family psychosocial services that address the unique challenges of childhood cancer.
- Child life and therapeutic play
- Family resource center
- Adolescent and young adult program
- Sibling support
Who: Pediatric cancer patients and families
Cost: Varies; support services often free
Phone: 2-1-1
Keck Medicine of USC – Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Support
📍 Los Angeles, CA
USC Norris offers a range of patient support services, from social work consultations to financial counseling. Their cancer survivorship program helps patients transition from active treatment to long-term wellness with personalized care plans.
- Oncology social work services
- Cancer survivorship clinic
- Financial counseling
Who: USC Norris cancer patients
Cost: Covered through treatment; many free
Phone: 2-1-1
Caregiver Resource Center of Los Angeles
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Funded by the California Department of Health Care Services, this center provides specialized support for family caregivers of adults with chronic or terminal illness, including cancer. Services are available in English, Spanish, and other languages upon request.
- Respite care grants
- Legal and financial consultations
- Caregiver counseling and support groups
- Education workshops on caregiving skills
Who: Family caregivers in Los Angeles County
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Gilda’s Club Los Angeles (now part of Cancer Support Community)
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Named after comedian Gilda Radner, this welcoming clubhouse offers social and emotional support in a non-clinical setting. Members enjoy networking groups, lectures, workshops, and social events — all designed to ensure no one faces cancer alone.
- Noogieland children’s program
- Networking and support groups
- Social events and community gatherings
Who: Anyone impacted by cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Breast Cancer Angels
📍 Irvine, CA (serves Southern California)
Breast Cancer Angels provides direct financial assistance and emotional support to underserved women and men fighting breast cancer in Southern California. Their Emergency Financial Assistance program helps with rent, utilities, car payments, and other bills that pile up during treatment.
- Emergency bill payment assistance
- Peer mentor matching
- Wellness retreats
Who: Underserved breast cancer patients in Southern California
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
San Francisco Bay Area
Resources for cancer patients in San Francisco, Oakland, the Peninsula, and the greater Bay Area.
UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center – Support Services
📍 San Francisco, CA
As one of the nation’s leading NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers, UCSF provides an array of support services through their Patient and Family Cancer Support Center. The center offers drop-in hours, a lending library, wig fittings, and access to integrative oncology.
- Patient and Family Cancer Support Center
- Integrative oncology (acupuncture, massage)
- Wig bank and appearance program
- Multilingual patient navigators
Who: UCSF patients and Bay Area community
Cost: Many services free; some covered by insurance
Phone: 2-1-1
Bay Area Cancer Connections
📍 Palo Alto, CA
Specializing in breast and ovarian cancer support, this Peninsula-based nonprofit has been a pillar of the Bay Area cancer community for over 25 years. They offer a warm drop-in center, peer counseling, and a comprehensive resource library along with support groups in English, Spanish, and Mandarin.
- Drop-in support center
- Peer counselor training and matching
- Multilingual support groups
- Post-treatment survivorship programs
Who: Breast and ovarian cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Charlotte Maxwell Clinic
📍 Oakland, CA
This unique clinic provides free complementary therapies — including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage — to low-income women with cancer in the East Bay. By offering integrative care that many patients could never afford, Charlotte Maxwell fills an important gap in the support landscape.
- Free acupuncture treatments
- Herbal and homeopathic consultations
- Healing massage therapy
Who: Low-income women with cancer in the East Bay
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community – San Francisco Bay Area
📍 Walnut Creek & San Francisco, CA
With locations in both the East Bay and San Francisco, this affiliate runs more than 40 weekly programs for people affected by cancer. Offerings range from gentle yoga and qigong to caregiver workshops and grief groups, all led by licensed professionals.
- 40+ weekly programs
- Grief and bereavement groups
- Caregiver-specific workshops
- Mind-body wellness classes
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and bereaved family
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stanford Cancer Center – Patient Resources
📍 Palo Alto, CA
Stanford’s cancer center pairs each patient with a dedicated care coordinator who helps navigate scheduling, insurance questions, and referrals to community support. Their financial counselors work proactively to identify assistance programs and reduce out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
- Dedicated care coordinators
- Pre-treatment financial planning
- Survivorship and wellness clinics
- Clinical trial navigation
Who: Stanford Cancer Center patients
Cost: Varies; financial counseling free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ceres Community Project
📍 Sebastopol, CA (serves North Bay)
Teen volunteers prepare and deliver organic, medically tailored meals to cancer patients and their families in Sonoma and Marin counties. Each week, clients receive nourishing meals designed to support immune function and recovery during treatment.
- Weekly delivery of organic, chef-prepared meals
- Medically tailored nutrition plans
- Serves patients and their household members
Who: Seriously ill individuals in Sonoma and Marin counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Marin Cancer Care – Transportation Assistance
📍 Greenbrae, CA
Volunteer drivers transport Marin County cancer patients to and from chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatment appointments. The service helps ensure patients never miss critical treatments due to lack of transportation.
- Door-to-door rides to treatment
- Flexible scheduling
- Volunteer companion drivers
Who: Marin County cancer patients needing rides
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital – Pediatric Oncology Support
📍 San Francisco & Oakland, CA
UCSF Benioff’s pediatric oncology program, with campuses in both San Francisco and Oakland, provides family-centered support including child life services, school liaison programs, and psychosocial care. Their teen and young adult program addresses the distinctive developmental needs of adolescents facing cancer.
- Child life specialists on every unit
- School re-entry coordination
- Teen and young adult support
- Family lodging assistance
Who: Pediatric cancer patients and families
Cost: Varies; support services often free
Phone: 2-1-1
Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (BCEF)
📍 San Francisco, CA
BCEF offers rapid-response emergency grants to low-income San Francisco Bay Area residents facing breast cancer. Grants help cover immediate needs like rent, groceries, and utility bills so patients can focus on healing rather than financial survival.
- Emergency financial grants (up to $500)
- Rapid application turnaround
- Referrals to additional resources
Who: Low-income breast cancer patients in SF Bay Area
Cost: Free (grants)
Phone: 2-1-1
Zen Hospice Project (now part of UCSF Osher Center)
📍 San Francisco, CA
Pioneering a contemplative approach to end-of-life care, this program trains volunteers in mindful caregiving and provides residential hospice services. For cancer patients approaching the end of their treatment journey, the program offers compassionate presence and comfort-focused care.
- Mindful caregiver training
- Residential hospice care
- Grief support
Who: Patients with terminal illness and their families
Cost: Varies; accepts insurance and Medi-Cal
Phone: 2-1-1
San Diego
Cancer support services in San Diego County, from the coast to the inland valleys and border communities.
UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center – Patient Support
📍 La Jolla, CA
Moores Cancer Center, San Diego’s only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, provides patient navigators, psycho-oncology services, and a dedicated survivorship program. Their community outreach team also organizes free cancer screenings in underserved San Diego neighborhoods.
- Patient navigator program
- Psycho-oncology consultations
- Cancer survivorship program
- Community screening events
Who: UCSD patients and San Diego community
Cost: Many services free; treatment costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
San Diego Cancer Research Institute
📍 San Diego, CA
This community-based organization provides free or low-cost cancer treatment, supportive care, and clinical trial access for San Diego-area patients. For decades, they have served as a safety net for underinsured patients who might otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.
- Low-cost cancer treatment
- Clinical trial enrollment
- Social services and resource referrals
Who: Underserved cancer patients in San Diego
Cost: Free or low-cost
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Angels of San Diego
📍 San Diego, CA
A grassroots volunteer organization that provides personalized support to San Diego cancer patients, including meal delivery, rides to appointments, and companionship visits. Their approach is simple and direct: connect someone in need with a neighbor willing to help.
- Home-cooked meal delivery
- Companionship and errand assistance
- Rides to treatment appointments
Who: San Diego County cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Komen San Diego – Patient Support
📍 San Diego, CA
The San Diego affiliate of Susan G. Komen funds local breast cancer treatment, screening, and education programs throughout the county. Grants flow directly to community organizations serving women and men who lack adequate insurance or resources for breast health care.
- Breast cancer screening and treatment grants
- Community education programs
- Patient navigation for newly diagnosed
Who: San Diego County breast cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
VA San Diego Healthcare System – Oncology
📍 San Diego, CA
The San Diego VA provides full oncology services, from screening and diagnosis through treatment and palliative care, for eligible veterans. Their Whole Health program integrates conventional cancer treatment with complementary approaches such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy.
- Complete cancer treatment services
- Whole Health complementary therapies
- Veteran caregiver support
Who: Eligible veterans in San Diego County
Cost: Free or low-cost for eligible veterans
Phone: 2-1-1
Mama’s Kitchen
📍 San Diego, CA
Mama’s Kitchen delivers free, nutritious meals to San Diegans living with cancer, HIV/AIDS, and other critical illnesses. Clients receive three meals a day, seven days a week, delivered directly to their door by a team of dedicated volunteers.
- 21 meals per week home-delivered
- Medically appropriate meal options
- Nutrition counseling
Who: San Diego residents with cancer and critical illness
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sacramento & Central Valley
Resources serving patients in Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, Modesto, and the agricultural heartland of California.
UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center – Support Programs
📍 Sacramento, CA
UC Davis serves as the primary academic cancer center for Northern California’s inland communities. Their patient support programs include financial navigation, community health worker outreach in the Central Valley, and Spanish-language support groups for the region’s large Latino population.
- Community health worker outreach
- Spanish-language support groups
- Financial navigation services
- Cancer screening in rural communities
Who: UC Davis patients and Northern California community
Cost: Many services free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community – Central Valley
📍 Fresno, CA
Bringing free emotional support programming to one of California’s most underserved regions, this affiliate provides support groups, wellness activities, and family programs in both English and Spanish. Their bilingual staff understands the agricultural community’s unique challenges.
- Bilingual support groups
- Wellness and exercise programs
- Children’s programs for families
Who: Central Valley cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sutter Health Sacramento – Cancer Financial Assistance
📍 Sacramento, CA
Sutter Health’s oncology financial counselors help Sacramento-area cancer patients access charity care programs, negotiate payment plans, and apply for pharmaceutical assistance. They work closely with social workers to address the full range of practical challenges that accompany a cancer diagnosis.
- Charity care and sliding-scale billing
- Pharmaceutical assistance program enrollment
- Insurance navigation
Who: Sutter Health cancer patients in the Sacramento region
Cost: Free counseling; financial aid varies
Phone: 2-1-1
Central Valley Medical Transportation
📍 Fresno, CA (serves Central Valley)
For Medi-Cal patients in Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, and Tulare counties, this service coordinates non-emergency medical transportation to cancer treatment appointments. Patients can request rides up to 72 hours in advance for scheduled chemotherapy and radiation sessions.
- Non-emergency medical transportation
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- Multi-county service area
Who: Medi-Cal beneficiaries in Central Valley counties
Cost: Free for eligible Medi-Cal patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Community Food Bank of Fresno
📍 Fresno, CA
Serving one of the most food-insecure regions in the state, the Community Food Bank distributes millions of pounds of groceries through its partner agencies. Cancer patients in treatment can access supplemental food boxes and are screened for CalFresh and other benefit programs.
- Emergency food boxes
- CalFresh enrollment assistance
- Mobile pantry distribution in rural areas
Who: Low-income Fresno County residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Kaiser Permanente Sacramento – Oncology Social Work
📍 Sacramento, CA
Kaiser’s Sacramento oncology social work team offers individual counseling, family meetings, and advance care planning for cancer patients within the Kaiser system. They coordinate with community agencies to address housing, transportation, and other non-medical needs.
- Individual and family counseling
- Advance care planning
- Community resource referrals
Who: Kaiser Permanente members
Cost: Covered under Kaiser membership
Phone: 2-1-1
Hmong Cultural Center of Butte County – Health Navigation
📍 Oroville, CA
Serving the Hmong community in Northern California’s Central Valley, this cultural center helps cancer patients navigate the Western healthcare system with linguistically and culturally appropriate support. Staff translate medical information and accompany patients to appointments.
- Hmong-language health navigation
- Medical interpretation services
- Cultural health education
Who: Hmong community members in the Central Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Orange County
Cancer support organizations in Orange County, from Anaheim to Laguna Beach and everywhere in between.
UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center – Patient Support
📍 Orange, CA
Orange County’s only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center provides a full continuum of support, from diagnosis through survivorship. Their Vietnamese Cancer Outreach Program and Latino Cancer Outreach Program address the needs of OC’s diverse communities with language-specific resources.
- Vietnamese Cancer Outreach Program
- Latino Cancer Outreach Program
- Psychosocial oncology services
- Cancer genetics program
Who: UCI Health patients and Orange County residents
Cost: Many programs free; treatment costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Support Community – Orange County
📍 Irvine, CA
This welcoming community center offers an extensive menu of free programs — support groups, educational sessions, healthy cooking classes, and fitness activities — all designed for people affected by cancer. They also run a dedicated program for young adults (ages 18-39) navigating a cancer diagnosis.
- Young adult cancer program
- Healthy cooking and nutrition classes
- Mindfulness and stress reduction
- Family and children’s programs
Who: Orange County cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
CHOC Children’s – Hyundai Cancer Institute
📍 Orange, CA
CHOC’s Hyundai Cancer Institute is one of the largest pediatric cancer programs in Southern California, treating over 400 new patients annually. Family support includes child life therapy, pet therapy visits, a parent resource room, and Ronald McDonald House partnerships for families traveling for care.
- Child life and play therapy
- Pet therapy program
- Parent resource room
- Camp CHOC summer camp
Who: Pediatric cancer patients and families
Cost: Varies; support programs free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colorectal Cancer Alliance – OC Support Group
📍 Orange County, CA
This local chapter offers monthly support meetings for colorectal cancer patients and survivors, creating a space to share treatment experiences and practical advice. Members also receive access to the national alliance’s buddy program, matching them with someone who has been through a similar journey.
- Monthly in-person support meetings
- Peer buddy matching program
- Educational resources
Who: Colorectal cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Orange County United Way – 211 Cancer Resource Line
📍 Orange County, CA
Dialing 2-1-1 connects Orange County residents with a trained specialist who can identify local cancer support resources, financial assistance programs, and social services. Available in over 150 languages, 211 is often the fastest way to find help in a crisis.
- 24/7 helpline in 150+ languages
- Financial assistance referrals
- Emergency food, shelter, and utilities support
Who: All Orange County residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) – ACCESS Paratransit
📍 Orange County, CA
OCTA’s ACCESS service provides door-to-door shared rides for individuals with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses. Cancer patients experiencing treatment side effects that limit mobility may qualify for this ADA-compliant service to get to medical appointments.
- Door-to-door paratransit service
- ADA eligibility certification
- Advance scheduling available
Who: ADA-eligible individuals in Orange County
Cost: Reduced fare ($4.50 per trip)
Phone: 2-1-1
San Jose & Silicon Valley
Cancer resources in San Jose, Santa Clara County, and surrounding Silicon Valley communities.
El Camino Health – Cancer Support Services
📍 Mountain View, CA
El Camino Health’s Cancer Center offers a navigator program, support groups, and wellness classes for patients throughout the South Bay. Their Look Good Feel Better sessions and lymphedema management program help patients maintain confidence and physical well-being during treatment.
- Oncology nurse navigation
- Look Good Feel Better workshops
- Lymphedema management
- Monthly education seminars
Who: El Camino Health patients and community
Cost: Free for most support programs
Phone: 2-1-1
Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired – Cancer Support
📍 San Jose, CA
For cancer patients who are also blind or visually impaired, Vista Center provides assistive technology, counseling, and daily living skills training. This specialized support ensures that vision loss does not become an additional barrier to managing cancer treatment.
- Assistive technology training
- Low-vision rehabilitation
- Counseling services
Who: Blind or visually impaired cancer patients
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Korean Health, Education, Information and Research (KHEIR) Center
📍 Santa Clara County, CA
KHEIR serves the Korean community in Santa Clara County with culturally and linguistically appropriate cancer education, screening referrals, and patient navigation. Their bilingual staff bridge the gap between Korean patients and the English-dominant healthcare system.
- Korean-language cancer education
- Cancer screening referrals
- Patient navigation and interpretation
Who: Korean community in Silicon Valley
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sacred Heart Community Service
📍 San Jose, CA
Sacred Heart provides emergency financial assistance, food distribution, and clothing for families in crisis, including those dealing with cancer. Their case managers help connect cancer patients with rental assistance, utility programs, and other safety-net resources in Santa Clara County.
- Emergency financial assistance
- Food distribution center
- Clothing and household goods
- Benefits enrollment help
Who: Low-income Santa Clara County residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stanford Medicine – Canary Center Early Cancer Detection
📍 Palo Alto, CA
The Canary Center focuses on early detection research and connects community members with innovative screening programs. Patients can learn about emerging detection technologies and participate in clinical studies aimed at catching cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.
- Early detection research studies
- Community education events
- Clinical trial enrollment
Who: Community members interested in early detection
Cost: Free for qualifying studies
Phone: 2-1-1
Caregiver Resource Center of Santa Clara County
📍 San Jose, CA
Offering services in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese, this center supports family caregivers through counseling, respite grants, and legal consultations. Their specialized cancer caregiver workshops teach practical skills like medication management and communicating with medical teams.
- Multilingual counseling and support groups
- Respite care grants up to $5,000/year
- Legal and financial consultations
- Caregiver skills workshops
Who: Family caregivers in Santa Clara County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Riverside & Inland Empire
Resources for patients in Riverside, San Bernardino, and surrounding Inland Empire communities.
Loma Linda University Cancer Center – Patient Support
📍 Loma Linda, CA
Loma Linda’s cancer center serves as the primary specialty oncology resource for the Inland Empire region. Their support services include social work consultation, spiritual care, nutritional counseling, and a survivorship program that helps patients plan for life after treatment.
- Oncology social work
- Spiritual care and chaplaincy
- Cancer nutrition counseling
- Cancer survivorship clinic
Who: Loma Linda University Health patients
Cost: Varies; many support services free
Phone: 2-1-1
Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) – Cancer Care Navigation
📍 Rancho Cucamonga, CA
As the largest Medi-Cal managed care plan in the Inland Empire, IEHP provides care coordination for its cancer patients, connecting them with specialists, transportation, and community resources. Their community health workers conduct outreach in neighborhoods with low cancer screening rates.
- Cancer care coordination
- Transportation to treatment
- Community health worker outreach
- Specialty referral management
Who: IEHP members in Riverside and San Bernardino counties
Cost: Covered under IEHP membership
Phone: 2-1-1
Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center
📍 Temecula, CA
A warm and inviting resource center serving the southwest Riverside County area, Michelle’s Place offers support groups, a wig lending library, exercise classes, and educational programs for all types of cancer. Their “newly diagnosed” program helps patients take their first steps after hearing the words “you have cancer.”
- Wig and prosthesis lending library
- Newly diagnosed orientation
- Gentle yoga and exercise classes
- Monthly educational lectures
Who: Cancer patients and families in SW Riverside County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Riverside Transit Agency – Dial-A-Ride
📍 Riverside, CA
Dial-A-Ride provides curb-to-curb shared rides for seniors and individuals with disabilities in western Riverside County. Cancer patients who meet ADA eligibility criteria can use this service to reach treatment facilities when other transportation is not available.
- Curb-to-curb shared rides
- ADA paratransit service
- Advance reservation system
Who: Seniors and ADA-eligible individuals in Riverside County
Cost: $3.50 per trip
Phone: 2-1-1
Feeding America – Riverside & San Bernardino Counties
📍 Riverside, CA
The Inland Empire’s Feeding America affiliate operates a network of food pantries and distribution sites across both Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Cancer patients struggling with food costs during treatment can access weekly groceries and hot meals through partner locations.
- Weekly food pantry access
- Mobile pantry in underserved areas
- SNAP/CalFresh outreach
Who: Inland Empire residents experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
VA Loma Linda Healthcare System – Cancer Care
📍 Loma Linda, CA
The Loma Linda VA provides comprehensive cancer care for veterans in the Inland Empire, including medical oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical services. Their oncology social workers help veterans access VA benefits, community resources, and caregiver support programs.
- Full oncology treatment services
- VA benefits counseling
- Caregiver support program
Who: Eligible veterans in the Inland Empire
Cost: Free or low-cost for eligible veterans
Phone: 2-1-1
Desert Cancer Foundation
📍 Palm Desert, CA
Serving the Coachella Valley, Desert Cancer Foundation provides financial assistance for cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment for uninsured and underinsured residents. Their approach is personal — a small team of case workers guides each patient from initial screening through treatment completion.
- Cancer screening and treatment funding
- Personalized case management
- Community cancer education
Who: Uninsured/underinsured Coachella Valley residents
Cost: Free for qualifying patients
Phone: 2-1-1
Rural & Northern California
Support for cancer patients in Northern California’s rural communities, including Shasta, Humboldt, Mendocino, and other underserved areas where access to specialized care can be limited.
Dignity Health – Mercy Medical Center Cancer Program
📍 Redding, CA
Mercy Medical Center is the primary cancer treatment facility for the far north of California, serving patients from Shasta, Siskiyou, Trinity, and surrounding counties. Their patient navigator helps connect rural patients with financial aid, lodging, and transportation for the long drives to treatment.
- Patient navigation for rural patients
- Lodging coordination for out-of-town patients
- Support groups and wellness programs
- Financial assistance applications
Who: Northern California cancer patients
Cost: Varies; support programs often free
Phone: 2-1-1
St. Joseph Hospital – Cancer Support Services
📍 Eureka, CA
Serving Humboldt County’s remote communities, St. Joseph Hospital’s cancer program provides local patients with support groups, counseling, and care coordination so they don’t have to travel far for every need. Their social workers are familiar with the unique challenges of living with cancer in a rural area.
- Cancer support groups
- Oncology social work
- Community health education
Who: Humboldt County cancer patients
Cost: Free for support programs
Phone: 2-1-1
Shasta Regional Community Foundation – Medical Travel Fund
📍 Redding, CA
This community foundation administers a medical travel fund that helps North State residents cover the cost of traveling to distant treatment centers. For cancer patients who must drive three or more hours for specialized care, these grants can mean the difference between receiving treatment and going without.
- Travel expense grants (gas, lodging, meals)
- Coordination with treatment centers
- Referrals to additional aid
Who: North State residents traveling for medical care
Cost: Free (grant-based)
Phone: 2-1-1
Northern Valley Indian Health – Cancer Screening Program
📍 Chico, CA (serves multiple counties)
Providing culturally sensitive healthcare to Native American and low-income populations in rural Northern California, this federally qualified health center offers cancer screening, prevention education, and patient navigation. Their community health representatives bridge cultural and geographic gaps in care.
- Cancer screening (breast, cervical, colorectal)
- Community health representative visits
- Patient navigation and referrals
Who: Native American and low-income populations in rural NorCal
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 2-1-1
North Coast Opportunities – Food Assistance
📍 Ukiah, CA (serves Lake & Mendocino counties)
This community action agency distributes emergency food to residents in Lake and Mendocino counties, two of the most economically challenged regions in Northern California. Cancer patients who are unable to work during treatment can access monthly food boxes and hot meal programs.
- Monthly commodity food distribution
- Emergency food assistance
- Senior nutrition program
Who: Low-income residents of Lake and Mendocino counties
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Enloe Medical Center – Cancer Services
📍 Chico, CA
Enloe’s cancer program serves as a regional treatment center for Butte, Glenn, and Tehama counties. In addition to clinical care, they run a cancer resource room, monthly wellness events, and a wig and head covering library for patients experiencing hair loss.
- Cancer resource room with lending library
- Wig and head covering program
- Support groups and wellness events
Who: North Valley cancer patients
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
211 California – Rural County Resources
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
By dialing 2-1-1, rural Californians can connect with trained specialists who maintain databases of local resources — from food banks and utility assistance to cancer-specific programs. For patients in remote areas who don’t know where to turn, 211 serves as a vital starting point.
- 24/7 helpline with live specialists
- Local resource database
- Available in multiple languages
Who: All California residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sutter Lakeside Hospital – Cancer Support
📍 Lakeport, CA
In one of California’s most rural and economically disadvantaged counties, Sutter Lakeside provides basic cancer support services and social work consultations. Staff coordinate with larger treatment centers to ensure continuity of care for patients who must travel for specialized treatment.
- Social work support
- Referral coordination to specialty centers
- Community health resources
Who: Lake County cancer patients
Cost: Free for support services
Phone: 2-1-1
Additional Specialty Resources
Disease-specific, population-specific, and specialty organizations serving California cancer patients.
Young Survival Coalition – California
📍 Statewide (virtual and in-person meetups)
YSC focuses exclusively on young women diagnosed with breast cancer under age 40. Their California face-to-face meetups, online forums, and annual summit give young breast cancer patients a community that understands the unique challenges of facing this disease early in life.
- Face-to-face local meetups
- Online community forums
- Fertility and family planning resources
- Annual YSC Summit
Who: Women under 40 diagnosed with breast cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Stupid Cancer
📍 Nationwide (active California community)
With a name that captures its no-nonsense approach, Stupid Cancer serves adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged 15-39 through peer support, online meetups, and the annual CancerCon gathering. Their Instapeer app connects young cancer patients with peers who get it.
- Instapeer one-on-one matching
- Virtual meetups and events
- Annual CancerCon conference
Who: Young adults ages 15-39 with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Prostate Cancer Foundation – California Resources
📍 Santa Monica, CA (headquartered)
Headquartered in Santa Monica, PCF is the world’s leading philanthropic funder of prostate cancer research. Beyond funding science, they provide a patient guide in multiple languages, connect patients to clinical trials, and maintain an online resource hub with the latest treatment information.
- Multilingual patient guides
- Clinical trial finder
- Treatment decision support tools
Who: Prostate cancer patients and their families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation
📍 Nationwide (serves California patients)
HealthWell provides copay and premium assistance for underinsured cancer patients who cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs of their prescribed treatments. Their disease-specific funds cover dozens of cancer types, and applications can be submitted online for fast processing.
- Copay assistance for cancer medications
- Insurance premium support
- Travel and lodging assistance for clinical trials
Who: Underinsured patients with qualifying diagnoses
Cost: Free (grant-based)
Phone: 2-1-1
Make-A-Wish – Greater Bay Area & Southern California
📍 San Francisco & Los Angeles, CA
Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes to children between 2.5 and 18 years old diagnosed with critical illnesses, including cancer. Research shows that a wish experience can improve a child’s emotional well-being and give families joyful memories during a difficult time.
- Personalized wish granting
- Travel, celebrity meet, and special experience wishes
- Hospital wish partnerships
Who: Children ages 2.5–18 with critical illnesses
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Legal Aid Society of San Diego – Cancer Legal Assistance
📍 San Diego, CA
Legal Aid San Diego offers free legal representation to low-income cancer patients facing issues like wrongful termination, housing discrimination, insurance denials, and benefit access. Their medical-legal partnership with local hospitals integrates legal help directly into the care setting.
- Employment rights protection
- Insurance denial appeals
- Housing and benefits advocacy
Who: Low-income San Diego County residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA)
📍 Los Angeles, CA
LAFLA provides free civil legal services to low-income Los Angeles residents, including cancer patients who face eviction, disability benefits denials, or workplace discrimination due to their diagnosis. Their community clinics are held in hospitals and community centers across LA County.
- Eviction defense and housing assistance
- Disability benefits applications
- Workplace rights advocacy
Who: Low-income LA County residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lung Cancer Foundation of America – California Network
📍 Nationwide (California programs)
LCFA connects California lung cancer patients with peer mentors, educational webinars, and research updates. They combat the stigma surrounding lung cancer and advocate for increased research funding to improve survival rates for all patients, regardless of smoking history.
- Peer-to-peer mentoring
- Educational webinars and events
- Research updates and clinical trial info
Who: Lung cancer patients and their families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Melanoma Research Foundation – California Community
📍 Nationwide (California programs)
Given California’s sunny climate, melanoma awareness is particularly important. MRF provides educational resources, patient support through their MPACT program, and connects patients with dermatologists and oncologists experienced in treating advanced melanoma.
- MPACT patient support program
- Sun safety and prevention education
- Clinical trial matching
Who: Melanoma patients and those at high risk
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
PAN Foundation – California Cancer Assistance
📍 Nationwide (serves California patients)
The Patient Access Network Foundation helps federally and commercially insured patients cover the cost of FDA-approved treatments. With disease-specific funds covering many cancer types, PAN can rapidly process applications and issue payments directly to pharmacies or providers.
- Copay assistance for cancer treatments
- Rapid application processing
- Covers many cancer types
Who: Insured patients meeting income guidelines
Cost: Free (grant-based)
Phone: 2-1-1
Asian Pacific Islander National Cancer Survivors Network
📍 California (multiple locations)
This network addresses cancer health disparities among Asian, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian populations in California. They provide culturally appropriate support groups, cancer education in multiple Asian languages, and advocacy for better representation in clinical trials.
- Culturally tailored support groups
- Multilingual cancer education materials
- Community health fairs
Who: Asian, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Camp Okizu
📍 Berry Creek, CA (serves statewide)
Camp Okizu offers free summer camp and family retreat programs for children with cancer and their siblings and families. Set in Northern California’s foothills, the camp gives kids a chance to just be kids — swimming, hiking, and making memories alongside peers who understand their experience.
- Summer camp for kids with cancer (ages 6-17)
- Sibling camp sessions
- Family weekend retreats
- SIBS program for brothers and sisters
Who: California children with cancer and their families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Ronald McDonald House Charities – Southern California & Bay Area
📍 Los Angeles, Stanford, Orange County, San Diego, Sacramento
Ronald McDonald Houses across California provide free or low-cost lodging for families of children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. With houses adjacent to major pediatric cancer centers, families can stay close to their child without the crushing cost of hotels.
- Free family lodging near hospitals
- Family rooms within hospitals
- Meals and community support
Who: Families of hospitalized children
Cost: Free or suggested donation
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Caregiver Alliance – National Center on Caregiving
📍 San Francisco, CA (headquartered; serves statewide)
Headquartered in San Francisco, FCA is one of the nation’s leading caregiver advocacy organizations. They operate California’s statewide Caregiver Resource Center network and provide direct services including counseling, respite, and a comprehensive online caregiver toolkit.
- Statewide Caregiver Resource Center network
- Online caregiver education and self-assessment tools
- Policy advocacy for caregiver rights
- Respite care coordination
Who: Family caregivers of adults with chronic illness
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Sharsheret – California Chapter
📍 Statewide (phone and virtual)
Sharsheret supports Jewish women and families facing breast and ovarian cancer, though services are open to all. Their programs include peer mentoring, genetic counseling subsidies, and a busy bag program that helps keep children occupied during a parent’s treatment appointments.
- Peer support and mentoring
- Genetic counseling subsidy
- Busy Bag children’s distraction program
- Best Face Forward cosmetic kits
Who: Women and families facing breast/ovarian cancer (all faiths welcome)
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels
📍 Nationwide (serves California patients)
Imerman Angels pairs newly diagnosed cancer patients with survivor “Mentor Angels” who have beaten the same type of cancer. This free one-on-one connection provides hope, practical advice, and emotional support from someone who has walked the same path.
- One-on-one cancer mentor matching
- Caregiver angel matching
- Matches by cancer type, age, and gender
Who: Anyone diagnosed with cancer, plus caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Good Days (formerly Chronic Disease Fund)
📍 Nationwide (serves California patients)
Good Days provides financial assistance to cancer patients who need help affording their prescribed treatments, including copays, premiums, and diagnostic testing. Their diagnosis-specific funds ensure that cost is not the reason someone delays or skips a life-saving treatment.
- Copay assistance for cancer drugs
- Diagnostic and genetic testing support
- Premium assistance
Who: Insured cancer patients below 500% FPL
Cost: Free (grant-based)
Phone: 2-1-1
The Colon Club
📍 Nationwide (California community)
The Colon Club uses bold awareness campaigns and a vibrant online community to support colorectal cancer patients, especially those diagnosed young. Their annual calendar and storytelling projects help fight the embarrassment and silence that too often surround this disease.
- Online patient community
- Resource directory for colorectal cancer
- Storytelling and awareness projects
Who: Colorectal cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Corporate Angel Network
📍 Nationwide (California flights available)
Corporate Angel Network arranges free flights for cancer patients on empty seats aboard corporate jets traveling to and from California’s major cities. This service is particularly valuable for patients traveling to NCI-designated cancer centers for specialized treatment or clinical trials.
- Free flights on corporate aircraft
- Travel to treatment centers nationwide
- One companion may fly with patient
Who: Cancer patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Project Angel Food
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Project Angel Food prepares and delivers medically tailored meals to seriously ill people in the Los Angeles area, including cancer patients. Each client receives meals designed by registered dietitians to support their specific treatment plan and nutritional needs.
- Medically tailored meal delivery
- Registered dietitian consultations
- Serves 2,500+ clients daily
Who: Critically ill individuals in LA County
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) – California
📍 Manhattan Beach, CA (headquartered; statewide)
Headquartered in California, PanCAN offers a Patient Services team that provides free, personalized information about pancreatic cancer treatment options, clinical trials, and local support resources. Their Know Your Tumor precision medicine program helps guide treatment decisions.
- Patient Services hotline (877-272-6226)
- Know Your Tumor precision medicine
- Clinical trial finder
- Local community events and walks
Who: Pancreatic cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-272-6226
Sisters Network – Southern California Chapter
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Sisters Network is the leading national African American breast cancer survivorship organization. Their Southern California chapter hosts monthly meetings, awareness events, and educational workshops that address the disproportionate impact of breast cancer on Black women.
- Culturally focused support groups
- Breast cancer education and outreach
- Survivorship celebration events
Who: African American breast cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NeedyMeds – California Assistance Programs
📍 Nationwide (searchable California database)
NeedyMeds maintains a comprehensive, searchable database of patient assistance programs, free clinics, and discount drug cards available in California. Their website allows patients to search by medication, condition, or zip code to find programs that can reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.
- Drug discount card (up to 80% off)
- Patient assistance program database
- Free and low-cost clinic locator
Who: Anyone seeking affordable medications or care
Cost: Free to search; drug card free
Phone: 2-1-1
Livestrong Cancer Navigation Services
📍 Nationwide (serves California patients)
Livestrong’s trained navigators help cancer patients and their families access clinical, emotional, and financial support. A single call connects you with someone who will research your options, help you create an action plan, and follow up to make sure you received the help you needed.
- One-on-one navigation services
- Fertility preservation referrals
- Insurance and financial guidance
Who: All cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
WellSpouse Association – California
📍 Nationwide (California support groups)
WellSpouse provides peer support specifically for spousal caregivers — those whose husband, wife, or partner is chronically ill or disabled due to cancer or other conditions. Their California-based support groups and letter-writing circles offer connection with others who understand the unique loneliness of being a well spouse.
- Spousal caregiver support groups
- Online forums and letter circles
- Annual conference
Who: Spouses and partners of cancer patients
Cost: Free (membership optional)
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Reach Foundation
📍 Nationwide (serves California families)
Family Reach provides financial lifelines to families fighting cancer by covering essential non-medical costs like housing, utilities, food, and transportation. Their Resource Navigator program connects families with a dedicated specialist who builds a comprehensive financial plan around the family’s specific needs.
- Emergency financial grants
- Resource Navigator program
- Financial planning assistance
Who: Families facing cancer-related financial hardship
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – California Cancer Assistance
📍 Statewide (local posts)
VFW posts throughout California provide emergency financial relief, transportation assistance, and companionship for veterans undergoing cancer treatment. Their Unmet Needs program can help cover bills that pile up when a veteran is unable to work during treatment.
- Unmet Needs emergency grants
- Buddy system transportation
- VA claims assistance
Who: California veterans and their families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cleaning for a Reason
📍 Nationwide (California partner services)
Cleaning for a Reason partners with residential cleaning services across California to provide free house cleaning for cancer patients undergoing treatment. When treatment leaves you too exhausted to pick up a mop, having a clean home can be one less thing to worry about.
- Free house cleaning during treatment
- Up to four cleanings over four months
- Simple online application
Who: Cancer patients currently in treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Triage Cancer
📍 Nationwide (California workshops)
Triage Cancer provides free education on the practical and legal issues that arise after a cancer diagnosis, including health insurance, employment rights, finances, and estate planning. Their California workshops and quick-reference guides help patients understand their rights and options.
- Insurance navigation workshops
- Employment rights education
- Financial planning guides
- State-specific legal fact sheets
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Not Sure Where to Start?
Navigating cancer support resources can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a diagnosis. Here are a few places to begin:
- Call 2-1-1: Available 24/7, in 150+ languages. A trained specialist will listen to your situation and connect you with local programs that can help.
- Contact your cancer center’s social worker: Every accredited cancer center in California employs oncology social workers who can connect you with financial aid, support groups, and practical assistance.
- Call the American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345): Their 24/7 helpline staffed by trained cancer information specialists can answer questions and provide referrals.
- Reach out to the Cancer Legal Resource Center (866-843-2572): For questions about insurance, employment rights, or any legal issue related to your cancer diagnosis.
- Visit CancerCare.org: Free professional counseling is available by phone for cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved family members.
Remember: asking for help is not a sign of weakness — it’s a smart strategy. These resources exist because no one should face cancer alone.
Explore support in nearby states: Texas, Arizona, Nevada, or browse all states.
Disclaimer: This resource guide is provided for informational purposes only by the Cancer Education Foundation. Inclusion in this directory does not constitute an endorsement. Program availability, eligibility requirements, and services may change without notice. We recommend contacting organizations directly to confirm current offerings. This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Last updated: April 2026.