CANCER SERVICES
​Access Community Health Network
Free or low-cost mammograms
866-267-2353 www.achn.net
​The Advocacy Connector
A Patient Resource Site. A dedicated, up-to-date resource that connects patients with national and state organizational assistance.
American Cancer Society (ACS)
Funds and conducts research, shares expert information, supports patients and spreads the word about prevention. Services provided include treatment option discussions, advice on coping with side effects, and health insurance assistance.
800-227-2345 https://www.cancer.org/
A Silver Lining Foundation
Buy a Mom a Mammogram Program provides free screening mammograms and follow up diagnostic testing. CCIC program provides access to national cancer research and services including free wigs.
312-345-1322 www.asilverliningfoundation.org
134 N. Wells, Suite 1218, Chicago, IL 60602
​About Breast Cancer
Breastcancer.org is an education and support lifeline for millions of people affected by breast cancer. As a digital resource, we help people find reliable answers to questions about their risk, diagnosis, treatment plan, surgical options, and more so they can live a full life beyond breast cancer.
Online Resources https://www.breastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer
CaringBridge
CaringBridge is a nonprofit, no-cost health platform for family caregivers and the loved ones they care for on a health journey. A dedicated space to share updates with everyone at once, we make it easy to activate a support network to come together and help heal through connection and community. To learn more or start a page visit, www.caringbridge.org.
Cancer and Careers
The organization provides support for people with cancer who are managing a career. They provide expert advice, interactive tools, and educational events to empower cancer fighters and survivors in the workplace.
646- 929-8017 https://www.cancerandcareers.org/
Cancer Education
Our mission is to improve cancer care through the dissemination of up-to-date and accurate educational programming and information for healthcare professionals, cancer patients, their family members, and caregivers.
http://www.cancereducation.com/index.html
CancerNet
Trusted, compassionate information for people with cancer and their families and caregivers, from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the voice of the world’s cancer physicians and oncology professionals.
Cancer Prevention and Control
CDC’s Division of Cancer Prevention and Control is advancing cancer prevention nationwide for everyone.
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Cancer Recovery Foundation of America (CRFA)
Equip patients to survive cancer through research, advocacy, education, and support.
800-238-6479 http://www.cancerrecovery.org
Cancer Supportive Care
Our website provides resources and valuable information on high-quality cancer care including ways to improve quality of life and reduce toxicities of therapy through more effective and efficient means of promoting a cooperative and mutual association between the medical profession, cancer patients, and their families.
http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/
The Cancer Support Center
FREE programs for those affected by cancer. From networking groups to cooking demonstrations and yoga, there are plenty of programs for you.
http://cancersupportcenter.org
2028 Elm Road, Homewood, IL 60430 708-798-9171
19645 South LaGrange Road, Mokena, IL 60448 708-478-3529
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Center for Faith and Community Health Transformation
The Center, was formed to transform the health of our communities through faith-rooted, collaborative action. The Center is joint work of staff from Advocate Health Care and the UIC Neighborhoods Initiative. We work to create health equity by building community, nurturing leaders and connecting with the unique spirit power of faith communities to promote social justice and abundant life for all. We are a virtual center at https://www.faithhealthtransformation.org/
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​Cleaning for a Reason
We are a virtual center. Cleaning for a Reason provides free home cleaning to patients battling cancer. When cancer makes life at home difficult, our trusted network of residential cleaners, cleaning industry volunteers, and community volunteers come together to support cancer patients and their families.
877-337-3348 www.cleaningforareason.org
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Gilda’s Club Chicago
FREE programs for men, women, children, and their families and friends whose lives have been impacted by any kind of cancer.
312-464-9900 http://www.gildasclubchicago.org/
537 N. LaSalle Street, Chicago, IL 60654
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Illinois Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Program (IBCCP)
The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams and Pap tests to eligible women. Even if a woman has already been diagnosed with cancer, she may receive free treatment if she qualifies. The program has been providing breast and cervical cancer screenings to the women of Illinois since 1995.
888-522-1282 http://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/life-stages-populations/womens-health-services/ibccp
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Imerman Angels
Provide comfort and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers through a personalized, one-on-one connection with someone who has been there.
866-IMERMAN (463-7626) https://imermanangels.org/
205 W. Randolph Street, 19th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance
Information about metastatic breast cancer, treatment options, and clinical trial participation. Includes MBCConnect, an online registry for breast cancer patients who might be interested in clinical trials. The registry can connect you with clinical trials that you could be eligible for.
Online resource https://www.mbcalliance.org
Mesothelioma Cancer Support
Mesothelioma.net is an advocacy and support group dedicated to providing all the latest in cancer research, treatment, and aid.
1-800-692-8608 https://mesothelioma.net/
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MyLifeLine
An online social media outlet dedicated to empowering cancer patients and caregivers to foster connection, inspiration, and healing through free, personalized websites.
888-234-2468 https://www.mylifeline.org/
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National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
No matter where you are on your journey, we can help. Get free screening and diagnostic breast cancer services under the National Mammography Program. Find a professional to help you navigate the complex healthcare system with our Patient Navigation Program. Send a care package to a patient undergoing breast cancer treatment with our HOPE kit. Join our weekend retreats for patients living with late stage breast cancer with the Metastatic Retreats. Find a safe space to share your experience as a patient or survivor with a Support Group.
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/our-programs/ ​
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National Cancer Institute
Cancer.gov is the central website for the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the U.S. government’s principal agency for cancer research. NCI is mandated by U.S. law to disseminate information about cancer and cancer research. This website serves as an important means to achieving that mission.
800-4-CANCER https://www.cancer.gov/
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​Pinked Perspective
Pinked Perspective, Inc. is a faith-based organization that offers hope to those facing a breast cancer diagnosis by providing support and mentorship, as well as care packages or “Kits” for those facing surgery and/or other treatment. If you would like to Request a Kit for someone facing a breast cancer diagnosis and/or mastectomy surgery, please email us at Pinkedperspective@gmail.com https://www.pinkedperspective.com/
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Susan G. Komen
Our mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Find the latest information on breast cancer risk factors, screening, diagnosis, treatment, metastatic breast cancer, survivorship and more. Our breast care helpline offers free support from trained oncology social workers, as well as guidance to local resources. You are not alone.
1-877-GO KOMEN https://www.komen.org/ helpline@komen.org
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United for Her
Discover Unite for HER’s free integrative Wellness Programs that support breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients nationwide. Integrative and supportive therapies to help empower and restore your body, mind, and soul
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Wellness Community
Wellness Community offers comprehensive and high-quality reviews in the following health and wellness products: Personal care, braces, yoga, relaxation.
https://www.wellnesscommunity.org/
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Wellness House, Living with Cancer
Learn practice healthful living, reduce stress. Programs are FREE.
630-323-5150 http://wellnesshouse.org
131 North County Line Road, Hinsdale, Illinois 60521 (Main Location)
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BREAST CANCER RECOVERY GARMENTS & CARE BAGS
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Awesome Breast Forms
Awesome Breastforms are created by a group of women who have come together for the single purpose of crocheting and knitting handmade prosthetic breast forms for women who have had breast surgery, including mastectomy, lumpectomy, explant surgery and women with developmental conditions. Our breast forms are completely free to any woman who has had a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Order for online. https://awesomebreastforms.org/
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Bags of Hope
Bags of Hope is a non-profit 501c3 organization whose mission is to send love, strength and hope to breast cancer patients one bag at a time!
Best Fit Mastectomy
Best Fit Mastectomy is a south side boutique with post mastectomy products including weighted, lightweight, partial, climate control breast forms for cancer patients. When you plan a visit, store associates will recommend the appropriate products post treatment. Medicaid/Medicare recipients may be eligible for reimbursement for recovery garments.
(708) 634-3540 https://www.bestmastectomy.net
Boxes of Hope
Our care packages and mastectomy pillows are free - just pay the shipping. Please email what you are ordering, along with the name and mailing address to traci@boh4bc.org
Faye’s Light
Cancer Comfort Treatments to men and women in active treatment for cancer. These qualities of life services complement medical care and include massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, reiki, creative art, and guided meditation. All are provided at NO COST TO THE RECIPIENT. Free spa services and holistic therapies to those currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
708-431-3643 www.fayeslight.org
P. O. Box 991, Homewood, IL 60430
National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
No matter where you are on your journey, we can help. Get free screening and diagnostic breast cancer services under the National Mammography Program. Find a professional to help you navigate the complex healthcare system with our Patient Navigation Program. Send a care package to a patient undergoing breast cancer treatment with our HOPE kit.
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/our-programs/ ​
Naturally Yours Shop
Naturally Yours is a boutique that specializes in mastectomy bras and other post-surgery garments.
https://naturallyyoursshop.com/about/
Second Act Chicago
Second Act Chicago is a north side boutique with post mastectomy products and wigs for cancer patients. When you plan a visit, store associates will recommend the appropriate products post treatment. Medicaid/Medicare recipients may be eligible for reimbursement for recovery garments.
(773) 525-2228 https://www.secondactchicago.com
FINANCIAL & LEGAL ASSISTANCE
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Assistance Fund
Assist patients with paying for their medication copays, health insurance coverage premiums and/or basic medical incidental expenses.
888-845-3663 https://tafcares.org/patients/patient-resources/
CancerCare
Free, professional support services provided to anyone affected by cancer as a patient or caregiver and include counseling, support groups, educational workshops, publications, and financial assistance.
800-813-HOPE (4673) https://www.cancercare.org
Cancer Legal Resource Center
Provide cancer-related legal information and resources to people nationwide. Services provided include a telephone assistance line, conferences, seminars, workshops, education, and outreach programs, and other cancer community activities. Overall, resources for legal issues are provided.
866-843-2572 http://cancerlegalresources.org
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Chicago
Complete services including Counseling, Domestic Violence, Health Care, Legal, Rental, Senior Care, Utility and Emergency Assistance
312-655-7500 https://catholiccharitiesusa.org
721 N. LaSalle Street, Chicago, IL 60654
Genentech
For qualifying medications, Genentech will provide financial assistance regardless of insurance status. To see if the medication you are taking for your breast cancer qualifies, please visit the link in the additional forms column.
(888) 941-3331 https://www.gene.com/patients/financial-support
Infinite Strength
Our mission is to provide ongoing financial assistance and emotional support to underserved single mothers living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, in order to help them have a better quality of life. And to provide hope to both mother and child that they do not have to go on this journey alone.
(203) 812-0549 https://www.infinitestrength.org/
Komen Financial Assistance Program
Financial hardships shouldn’t keep those with breast cancer from getting the care they need. Other expenses of daily living that can prevent patients from getting the care they need, when they need it. Funds may be used for daily-living costs such as rent, utilities, food, transportation, childcare, etc. Funding payments may only be made directly to the applicant.
1-877-GO-KOMEN https://www.komen.org/financial-assistance-program/
Needy Meds
NeedyMeds is a database for receiving financial assistance on medications. You can search medications and find resources to help pay for meds. The website has a page with instructions for using NeedyMeds - please visit the link in the additional links column.
800-503-6897 https://www.needymeds.org
Patient Advocate Foundation - Co-Pay Relief
The Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief program provides direct payments for co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles for eligible patients that need financial assistance.
(757) 952-0118 https://copays.org
PAN Foundation
The PAN Foundation helps underinsured patients with life-threatening, chronic, and rare disease get access to the medications they need.
(800) 394-0161 https://www.panfoundation.org
Patient Advocate Foundation
Provides professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life-threatening, and debilitating illnesses. This organization seeks to safeguard patients through effective mediation assuring access to care, maintenance of employment, and preservation of their financial stability.
800-532-5274 http://www.patientadvocate.org/
Pink Aid’s Pink Purse
Emergency financial assistance for breast cancer patients in need. Pink Aid is the only national organization providing compassionate support and rapid emergency financial assistance within 48 hours to breast cancer patients in treatment.
1-844-PINK-AID https://pinkaid.org/pink-aid-pink-purse/
Pink Fund
90-day non-medical cost-of-living expenses (car, house or rent, medical, car insurance, and utility payments) for breast cancer patients in active treatment for breast cancer.
877-234-7465 www.thepinkfund.org
The Sister Network Chicago
The Sister Network Chicago Chapter has financial assistance available for eligible breast cancer patients.
(773) 353-8854 https://sistersnetworkchicagochapter.org
Social Security Administration
Use this website to find out more about applying for disability benefits and apply online.
(800) 772-1213 https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/#anchor6
Team Maggie For a Cure
It provides fertility support for young adults facing cancer. Services provided include support, education, and financial assistance to teens and young adults with cancer seeking fertility preservation.
877-778-2366 http://www.teammaggieforacure.org/
Triage Cancer
Providing free education on the practical and legal issues that arise after a cancer diagnosis. https://triagecancer.org/
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HOUSING ASSISTANCE
Guest House Chicago
Guest House Chicago provides temporary housing to patients receiving treatment and their caregivers in the Chicago area. Guests must have a referral from a medical provider or a hospital social worker and be receiving care from affiliated hospitals and organizations. To see if you or your family might be eligible to stay, please visit the website. ​
(312) 996-1167 https://guesthousechicago.org
Carolyn and Karen Spiritual Healing House
Our Spiritual Healing House provides services for those survivors of Breast Cancer who are not ready to go home. We offer comprehensive continuous services that may include: Spiritual Counseling, Psychological Counseling, Holistic Counseling, and Social Services Counseling
872-212-1168 info@ckshhbreastcancer.org
Pink Fund
90-day non-medical cost-of-living expenses (car, house or rent, medical, car insurance, and utility payments) for breast cancer patients in active treatment for breast cancer.
877-234-7465 www.thepinkfund.org
United Way
Call 2-1-1 for help with food, housing, employment, healthcare, counseling and more.
2-1-1 Information Line www.211.org
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TRANSPORTATION SUPPORT
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American Cancer Society Road to Recovery Program
This service can connect you with an American Cancer Society volunteer to give you a free ride to your cancer appointments. Note: You must call well in advance for your appointment.
(800) 227-2345 https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html
United Way - Ride United Program
United Way has partnered with Lyft to provide free rides to those in need. United Way Worldwide today announced the launch of Ride United, a transportation access initiative that will help those in need overcome transportation barriers. Lyft leverages the strengths of local United Ways and the 211 network to address unmet transportation needs for individuals and families.
211 https://www.unitedway.org/the-latest/press/united-way-launches-ride-united
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Other Services
American Institute for Cancer Research
Whether you are a health professional, cancer survivor or someone who is looking to improve their health, our resources provide evidence-based. https://www.aicr.org
American Heart Association www.americanheart.org
American Lung Association www.lungusa.org
American Stroke Association www.strokeassociation.org
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Chicago
Complete services including Counseling, Domestic Violence, Health Care, Legal, Rental, Senior Care, Utility and Emergency Assistance
312-655-7500 https://catholiccharitiesusa.org
721 N. LaSalle Street, Chicago, IL 60654
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CFHC – Chicago Family Health Center
Provides comprehensive primary healthcare for all who seek care and the improvement of the health of the communities we serve by utilizing innovative health solutions.
773-768-5000 https://chicagofamilyhealth.org/
GriefNet https://griefnet.org/
GriefNet.org is an Internet community of persons dealing with grief, death, trauma, and major loss.
Grief Recovery Institute
Provide Grief Recovery assistance to people of all races, religions and background. Our focus and expertise are in helping people recover from loss, a normal and natural process that everyone experiences in their lives.
http://www.griefrecoverymethod.com
Greater Chicago Food Depository
The Greater Chicago Food Depository serves anyone in need of food. In addition to providing food and nutrition education, you can also get free help enrolling in SNAP and medical benefits. To find your neighborhood, please visit https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food/
Hunger Hotline
Food Assistance (800) 359-2163
Lady Gate Food Pantry
2338 East 91st Street, Chicago
(773) 375-3059
Medscape
News & Perspective. Your one-stop resource for medical news, clinical reference, and education.
Top Flight Defense, Inc.
Encourage and engage women veterans to impact their communities.
(815) 714-9144 topflightdefenseinc@gmail.com
https://topflightdefenseinc.org/
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United Way
Call 2-1-1 for help with food, housing, employment, healthcare, counseling and more.
2-1-1 Information Line www.211.org
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