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Financial Hardship Assistance Program

A cancer diagnosis affects more than health it can disrupt income, employment, housing stability, and everyday living expenses. Our Financial Hardship Assistance Program provides financial assistance to individuals who are experiencing financial strain due to cancer treatment or its related impacts.

This program is designed to offer meaningful support during a difficult time by easing the financial burden for individuals and families across our community.

Grant Awards

Award amounts are determined through an individualized review process that considers the financial hardship, the impact of treatment, and overall household circumstances. Grant levels may vary depending on the applicant’s situation and program resources at the time of review.

All grants are awarded upon consideration of the review committee and are subject to available funds. Submission of an application does not guarantee approval.

Eligibility Overview

Applicants must:

  • Have a confirmed cancer diagnosis

  • Demonstrate financial hardship related to income disruption or increased expenses

  • Be currently undergoing treatment or experiencing treatment-related financial hardship

  • Be a resident of Beltrami, Cass, or Hubbard County OR be receiving care at Sanford Bemidji at the time of application

Financial hardship may include, but is not limited to:

  • Loss or reduction of income due to treatment

  • Increased out-of-pocket medical expenses

  • Housing or utility instability

  • Transportation costs for treatment, including travel to care facilities

 

This program is intended to provide short-term financial support and is not a substitute for government or public assistance​​​​​​​​​

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How to Apply

The application form is available for download. Please click the link below.

Applicants may submit completed forms through one of the following methods:

Mail or Drop off

Colors of Cancer

c/o KBA Accounting

2901 Bemidji Ave N

Bemidji, MN 56601

Email

colorsofcancerbemidji@gmail.com

Please ensure all required sections of the application are completed prior to submission.

 

Review Process

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by our review committee. Each application is evaluated using objective hardship criteria to ensure fair and consistent consideration in accordance with our financial hardship assistance policy.

Applicants will be notified once a determination has been made. Processing times may vary depending on application volume and available funding.

  Important Information

  • Grants are provided as direct financial assistance and are not reimbursements.

  • Funds are intended to support general living or hardship-related expenses.

  • Grants may be considered taxable income under federal or Minnesota law; recipients are encouraged to consult a qualified tax professional.

  • Assistance provided through this program does not affect eligibility for Minnesota public benefits; however, applicants should consult their benefits administrator if they have questions.

  • All personal information is handled confidentially and in accordance with applicable Minnesota data privacy laws.

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