Housing (12)
WA State Housing Finance Commission
Programs to help with rent and mortgage payments during medical hardship.
Pierce County Housing Authority — Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government's major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in...
Catholic Community Services and Catholic Housing Services of Western Washington (CCSWW) — Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program quickly connects Veterans-families and individuals-experiencing homelessness or fleeing domestic violence to permanent housing through...
Tacoma Housing Authority (THA) — Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government's major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in...
Metropolitan Development Council (MDC) — Energy Assistance Program
The Energy Assistance Program provides a one-time per program-year grant to assist eligible low-income households with heating costs. This program provides:- Help paying utility billsPayment is...
Pierce County Department of Human Services — Veterans Assistance Program
Pierce County Veterans Assistance Programs provides emergency assistance to qualified indigent veterans and family members. This program provides: - Emergency financial assistanceFinancial...
Pierce County Department of Human Services — Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) pays heating bills directly to utility companies for eligible applicants. EAP provides:- Help paying utility billsIn addition, all applicants receive education...
St. Francis House — Rent and Utility Assistance
St. Francis House provides rent and utility assistance services and support to help those in financial crisis. This program is designed to assist families and individuals experiencing financial...
Helping Hand House (HHH) — Rapid Re-housing
Rapid Re-housing program provides housing relocation and stabilization services and short-term and medium-term rental assistance from three to twelve months to assist families with children who...
Exodus Housing — Rapid Rehousing Program
Exodus Housing helps families by quickly moving them from homelessness to permanent housing by providing them with access to fair market rent units rented by private landlords. Families have input...
Exodus Housing
Exodus Housing helps families by providing rental assistance, case management and tailored services in safe permanent housing in the geographical area where they want to live. They are dedicated...
Associated Ministries — Payee Services
Payee Services are provided to individuals who struggle to pay their bills and budget effectively. Protective payee services ensure that rent and utility costs are paid, along with other personal...
Food (21)
Northwest Harvest
Statewide food bank network providing free groceries to patients and families.
Cancer Nutrition Consortium — WA
Free nutrition counseling and meal planning for patients undergoing treatment.
Food Lifeline — Western WA
Supplies food to 350+ food banks across Western Washington helping families facing hunger.
Nourish Pierce County — Food Pantry
Nourish Pierce County's Food Pantries serve quality, nutritious food items to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, including children, the working poor, and seniors. This program...
My Sisters Pantry — Food Pantry
Our food pantry serves everyone from low income families, single parents, senior citizens, unemployed individuals, disabled veterans, working poor, and anyone else in need of our...
Bikers Against Statewide Hunger (BASH)
The BASH Food Bank provides food to anyone in the community in need. This program supplies critical nutrition to hungry individuals and families. This program provides:- Food to meet basic...
House of Matthew Permanent & Supportive Housing — Food Pantry
House of Matthew Permanent & Supportive Housing provides quality food items to households experiencing food insecurity. This program supplies critical nutrition to hungry individuals and families....
St. Leo Catholic Parish - Food Connection Ministry — St. Leo Food Bank
St. Leo Food Bank is an emergency food pantry in Pierce County. Our goal is to offer each of our clients at least three days of food for each member of their household.Services offered:- Food...
New Jerusalem Church Of God In Christ — Food Pantry
Our food pantry serves everyone from low income families, single parents, senior citizens, unemployed individuals, disabled veterans, working poor, and anyone else in need of our...
Families Unlimited Network
Families Unlimited Network's Food Assistance program offers a safe and welcoming environment where you will be able to get fresh, healthy food – including fresh produce, meat, bread, soup, pasta,...
St. Martin of Tours Catholic Parish — St. Martin of Tours Food Bank
St. Martin of Tours Catholic Parish's Food Bank provides provides quality food items to households experiencing food insecurity. This program supplies critical nutrition to hungry individuals and...
Making a Difference Foundation — Eloise's Cooking Pot Food Bank
Eloise's Cooking Pot Food Bank program provides free food to the needy in communities who are not eating on a regular basis due to their families experiencing economic hardship.This program...
Sumner Community Food Bank — Food Shopping
The Sumner Community Food Bank offers in-person food shopping at their facility. Households are able to visit once every 2 weeks to select items.This program provides:- Food to meet nutritional...
All Saints Parish — Delivery Food Pantry
All Saints Parish's food pantry serves everyone from low income families, single parents, senior citizens, unemployed individuals, disabled veterans, working poor, and anyone else that wishes to...
The Salvation Army - Puyallup Valley Corps — Food Pantry
Our food pantry serves everyone from low income families, single parents, senior citizens, unemployed individuals, disabled veterans, working poor, and anyone else that comes to the...
St. Francis House — Food and Clothing Pantry
The pantry provides quality food items and clothing to families and individuals in need. It supplies donations to residents who lack the means or resources to purchase them on their own.
GoodRoots Northwest — Food Lockers
GoodRoots Northwest offers community members the opportunity to receive food and fresh produce when they are in need. This service works to meet food insecurity needs identified within the...
Kiwanis Club of Buckley — Food Pantry
We provide a weekly food pantry on Mondays and Wednesdays for families within the White River School District boundaries in need of food assistance.Our services include:- Food to meet basic...
Gig Harbor Peninsula (GHP) FISH
GHP FISH's Food Bank is an emergency food bank service providing self shopping for basic groceries and personal hygiene products. This program provides:- Food to meet basic nutritional needs-...
Cedar Springs Community Church — Harvest House Food Pantry
Harvest House Food Pantry offers grocery assistance to feed families and individuals in need, and residents that do not have enough food because they lack the resources to purchase it. Anyone is...
Orting Food Bank Inc — Food Pantry
Orting Food Bank has been committed to collecting food and other household items and distributing them to those in need. Our primary service area is within the Orting School District boundaries....
Mental Health (6)
Cancer Lifeline — Emotional Support
Free professional counseling and support groups for patients and caregivers.
Gilda's Club Seattle
Free support groups, workshops, and social activities for anyone affected by cancer.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA — WA
Free 12-week wellness program for cancer survivors focusing on recovery.
Cancer Pathways
Free support groups, lectures, workshops, and social events for people living with cancer and families.
Team Survivor Northwest
Free fitness and health programs for women cancer survivors including yoga, aquatics, and hiking.
Harmony Hill Cancer Retreats
Free 3-day residential cancer healing retreats at a Hood Canal retreat center with peer support.
Money (24)
PAN Foundation — Cancer Programs
Financial help with copays and insurance premiums for specific cancer diagnoses.
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
Coalition connecting patients to organizations offering financial help for treatment.
WA Apple Health (Medicaid)
State Medicaid program providing coverage for qualifying cancer patients and families.
HealthPoint Community Health — WA
Sliding-scale medical services for uninsured and underinsured patients.
Northwest Hope & Healing
Immediate financial grants for breast and gynecologic cancer patients in the Puget Sound region.
HealthWell Foundation
Manages 40+ cancer assistance funds covering copays, premiums, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Cancer Lifeline — Financial Aid
One-time grants up to $450 for rent, utilities, food, and copays for low-income cancer patients.
Mary Bridge Children's Hospital — Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
The Women, Infant and Children Supplemental Food Program (WIC) is designed to promote healthy food habits to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women and infants and children birth...
Sea Mar Community Health Centers — Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
The Women, Infant and Children Supplemental Food Program (WIC) is designed to promote healthy food habits to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women and infants and children birth...
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health — Women, Infants and Children (WIC) services
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offers a variety of supplemental nutritional support services for low-income pregnant women and families.This program provides:- Health and nutrition education-...
Tacoma Rescue Mission — The Veterans Resource Center (VRC)
Tacoma Rescue Mission offers a center to homeless veterans where they can receive voluntary assistance and be with others who have similar experiences and obstacles. This program provides:-...
Peace Lutheran Church - Tacoma — Clothing Closet
At Peace Lutheran Church, they offer free basic clothing to families and individuals in need. They supply donated, gently used clothing to those who lack the needs to purchase them without...
Washington State Health Care Authority — Apple Health (Medicaid) for Ages 65 and older or Medicare eligible
Washington Apple Health Classic Medicaid coverage can cover individuals even if they already have Medicare coverage. While Medicare covers many medical expenses, it does not cover everything....
Washington State Health Care Authority — Apple Health (Medicaid) for Adults (Ages 19-64)
Washington State Health Care Authority provides Apple Health (Medicaid) for individuals and families with limited income who need access to low-cost health insurance coverage. This program...
The TEARS Foundation — Infant Funeral Assistance Programs
The TEARS Foundation offers Funeral Assistance Program which pays for current infant funeral expenses (burial and cremation) and unexpected child funeral expenses to ease the burden from families...
The TEARS Foundation — Charlie and Braden Project
The TEARS Foundation provides the Charlie and Braden Project for families who have lost a child and need support paying for their funeral expenses.This program provides:- Financial assistance to...
The TEARS Foundation — Infant Funeral Assistance
The TEARS Foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks to compassionately lift a financial burden from families who have lost a baby by providing funds to assist with the cost of burial or...
The TEARS Foundation — Jesse's Grant Marker Program
The TEARS Foundation provides Jesse's Grant Marker Program for families who have lost a child and need financial assistance to help with the cost of a grave marker. They may provide a flat,...
All Saints Parish — Servants of St. Teresa - Financial Assistance
All Saints Parish's Servants of St. Teresa ministry distributes Homelessness Prevention Funds.They are disbursed in the following forms of assistance: - Rent Assistance: Available to residents of...
The TEARS Foundation — The Luca John Fund
The Luca John Foundation provides bereavement support and financial assistance to families who have lost an infant child at 12 months or younger, or a stillbirthThis program provides: - Burial...
Share And Care House — Housing and Essential Needs (HEN)
Share And Care House offers Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) to Pierce County eligible participants giving access to essential needs items and potential rental assistance for qualified...
Hanger Clinic - Washington — Prosthetics & Orthotics
Hanger Clinic provides support care and orthotics care for those experienced limb loss. Our clinicians' dedication and expertise can help you regain your independence and pursue the activities...
Gig Harbor Peninsula (GHP) FISH — Financial Assistance
GHP FISH's Financial Assistance helps families and individuals during difficult times of transition or financial emergency. This program provides: - Help paying for rent, utilities, prescriptions,...
Donald Loomis Memorial Clothing Bank — Clothing Bank
The Donald Loomis Memorial Clothing Bank provides free basic clothing and school supplies to families and individuals in need. It supplies donations to residents of the White River or Carbonado...
Legal (7)
Northwest Justice Project
Free legal services for low-income cancer patients across Washington State.
Cancer Legal Resource Center
Free information and referrals on cancer-related legal issues.
Disability Rights Washington
Help with disability rights, ADA protections, and SSDI applications.
Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA)
Health equity organization helping with insurance disputes, Medicaid access, and health coverage barriers.
Columbia Legal Services
Free civil legal aid advancing racial and economic justice for low-income Washingtonians.
TacomaProbono Community Lawyers
Free civil legal aid in Pierce County including eviction defense, family law, and debt issues.
End of Life Washington
Free support and advance directive forms for people facing terminal or serious illness in WA.
Care (5)
WA Family Caregiver Support Program
Respite care, training, and support for family members caring for cancer patients.
Aging & Long-Term Support — WA DSHS
State-funded in-home services for patients who need help with daily activities.
Full Life Care
Home care, adult day health, and caregiver respite for patients with chronic illness in Puget Sound.
A Caring Closet — Vancouver
Free durable medical equipment including wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds in SW Washington.
Community Home Health & Hospice — Longview
Community-based hospice and home health services for terminally ill patients in SW Washington.
Your Rights (10)
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Protects cancer patients from workplace discrimination. Employers with 15+ employees must provide reasonable accommodations like flexible schedules, modified duties, and leave for treatment.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for serious health conditions including cancer treatment. Your employer must maintain your health insurance during leave.
WA Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
Washington State provides up to 12 weeks of PAID leave for cancer treatment, with benefits up to 90% of weekly wages. Can be used as little as one hour per week for ongoing treatments.
WA Law Against Discrimination (WLAD)
Broader than federal ADA — protects cancer patients at employers with just 8+ employees. Prohibits discrimination and requires reasonable workplace accommodations for cancer patients and survivors.
Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA)
Requires health plans that cover mastectomy to also cover breast reconstruction, prostheses, and treatment of physical complications at all stages of mastectomy.
ACA Pre-Existing Conditions Protection
The Affordable Care Act prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage or charging more due to a cancer diagnosis. Marketplace plans must cover essential benefits including cancer treatment.
COBRA Continuation Coverage
Allows you to keep your employer health insurance for up to 18-36 months after losing your job or reducing hours due to cancer. You pay the full premium but maintain your coverage and doctors.
WA Clinical Trial Coverage Mandate
Washington law requires insurers to cover routine patient costs when participating in approved clinical trials for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Research costs are covered by the trial sponsor.
WA Oral Chemotherapy Parity Law
Washington requires insurance plans to cover oral anti-cancer drugs on the same terms as IV chemotherapy — same copays and coverage levels, so patients don't pay more for oral treatment.
How to Appeal an Insurance Denial
If your insurer denies a cancer treatment claim, you have the right to appeal. WA provides a free independent external review process — impartial doctors review your case.
Programs (10)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Monthly income for cancer patients too sick to work. Many cancers qualify for Compassionate Allowances for faster processing. Average monthly benefit is ~$1,500.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly payments for cancer patients with limited income and resources, even without work history. 2026 maximum federal benefit is $967/month for individuals.
Medicare for Cancer Patients
Federal health insurance covering chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and prescription drugs. Part A covers inpatient treatment; Part B covers outpatient chemo and radiation (20% coinsurance after deductible).
WA Apple Health (Medicaid)
Washington's Medicaid program providing comprehensive cancer coverage — screening, treatment, prescriptions, and mental health — for low-income residents. Enrollment open year-round.
WA Breast, Cervical & Colon Health Program (BCCHP)
Free cancer screening for uninsured and underinsured Washington residents ages 40-64, including mammograms, Pap tests, and colonoscopies. Follow-up care for abnormal results included.
SNAP / Food Assistance
Monthly food benefits for low-income households. Cancer patients unable to work may qualify under disability rules. Benefits loaded onto an EBT card for groceries.
LIHEAP — Utility Assistance
Grants up to $1,000 to help low-income households pay heating and utility bills. Essential for cancer patients who need to maintain home temperature during recovery.
WA Prescription Drug Assistance (PDAF)
Helps Washington residents access cancer medications at reduced or no cost, regardless of insurance status. Assists with navigating patient assistance programs from pharmaceutical companies.
Hill-Burton Free/Reduced Care
Certain hospitals and health facilities must provide free or reduced-cost care to patients who cannot pay. Income eligibility varies by facility. Covers cancer treatment services.
WA Property Tax Exemption for Disabled
Partial or full property tax exemption for homeowners who are disabled due to cancer and meet income requirements. Can save thousands per year on property taxes.
Education (10)
Getting a Second Opinion
A second opinion confirms your diagnosis and treatment plan. You have the right to seek one, and it should not delay treatment. Ask your doctor to send medical records to another oncologist.
Understanding Cancer Staging
Cancer stages (I-IV) indicate how far cancer has spread. The TNM system measures Tumor size, lymph Node involvement, and Metastasis. Understanding your stage helps guide treatment decisions.
Questions to Ask Your Oncologist
Essential questions: What are my treatment options? What is the goal — cure, control, or comfort? What are the side effects? Should I consider a clinical trial? Bring a support person to take notes.
Finding Clinical Trials
Clinical trials test new treatments and may offer access to cutting-edge therapies. Search by cancer type, location, and trial phase at cancer.gov. Ask your oncologist if a trial is right for you.
Understanding Your Medical Bills (EOB)
An Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is not a bill — it shows what your insurer paid and what you owe. Review EOBs for errors, which are common in cancer treatment billing. Request itemized bills from providers.
Hospital Financial Assistance (Charity Care)
Under the ACA, nonprofit hospitals must offer financial assistance programs. You can apply for reduced or free care even after receiving bills. Always ask the billing department about assistance before paying.
Caregiver Burnout: Signs and Prevention
Caregiver burnout is real — watch for exhaustion, withdrawal, irritability, and neglecting your own health. Take breaks, accept help, join a support group, and remember: you can't pour from an empty cup.
Survivorship Care Plans
After treatment ends, a survivorship care plan outlines your follow-up schedule, potential late effects to watch for, and health recommendations. Ask your oncologist for a written plan before transitioning to primary care.
Advance Directives & Healthcare Power of Attorney
Advance directives let you document your healthcare wishes in case you can't communicate them later. A healthcare power of attorney designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Returning to Work After Cancer
You have legal rights when returning to work after cancer treatment. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations, and you don't have to disclose your diagnosis to coworkers. Start with reduced hours if needed.