Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation

Our mission is to eliminate pediatric cancer while providing hope and support to those who are touched by it. Our vision is a world without pediatric cancer.Forty-three children are diagnosed with cancer daily, and pediatric cancer remains the leading cause of death from disease among children. Even so, less than 4% of the total federal funding spent on cancer research is directed toward the treatment of children. These statistics are staggering. At Bear Necessities, we are dedicated to supporting pediatric cancer research to ultimately discover a cure, while continuing to help patients and their families today, bringing hope and joy to those in need. We couldn’t continue this critical work without the unwavering support of our donors. Thank you for all you do.

Counseling:Through its partnership with SamarCare Counseling and Bridgepoint Psychology Center, Bear Necessities provides up to 12 free counseling sessions with a licensed clinical therapist for pediatric cancer patients and any member of their immediate family. There is no limit on how many members of a family we serve. Bear Necessities offsets the full cost of these sessions or whatever a family’s health insurance does not cover. Individuals are eligible for this program for up to eight years after receiving a pediatric cancer diagnosis.

Scholarships:Thanks to a transformational investment from a board member, Bear Necessities launched a scholarship program in 2022 for pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and the siblings of someone who experienced pediatric cancer. The program is designed to ease the financial and emotional hardships associated with fighting pediatric cancer and to provide the opportunity for young people affected by pediatric cancer to pursue higher education from an accredited institution.

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 36-3874655) based in Chicago, IL.