Rapid response emergency funding for cancer care in the face of a natural disaster

Introduction: In 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the gulf coast, leaving many cancer survivors homeless and without access to medical facilities, medical records, and means to get to another hospital for care. In 2008, devastating floods swept through Iowa, leaving cancer survivors again affected by a natural disaster.

Methods: To ensure that cancer survivors had access to medical treatment, transportation, basic needs and housing costs, the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) designed 2 distinct granting processes, customized for type of disaster and regional needs and structure, in response to these natural disasters. Within 1 week of Hurricane Katrina, the LAF issued a Request for Proposals for organizations serving hurricane evacuees to apply for up to $50,000. In Iowa, the LAF partnered with the American Cancer Society, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the Iowa Department of Public Health to provide up to $1000 in direct assistance to cancer survivors undergoing treatment and residing in the designated federal disaster area.

Results: In total, 32 Hurricane Katrina proposals were received over the course of six weeks following the storm, and LAF awarded $599,746.92 to 17 organizations in 9 states. Following the Iowa floods, the LAF partnership distributed $94,700 to 97 individuals in Iowa.

Conclusion: LAF provided over 1200 cancer survivors with the funds they needed for food, temporary housing, transportation, utilities and everyday necessities. By adapting existing funding models and leveraging strategic partnerships, the LAF was able to provide a rapid response for distribution of funds to cancer survivors in need following a natural disaster.