Non-Profit Information
About Northwest Hope & Healing
Northwest Hope & Healing
Our Mission:
Northwest Hope & Healing was founded by Christine Smith in 2000, roughly 2 months after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The mission she envisioned from the beginning is the same today: to provide financial assistance to women in need who are battling breast and gynecological cancer at the Swedish Cancer Institute.
Our Patient Assistance Fund provides assistance for everyday living expenses such as child care, groceries, reliable transportation, and emergency rent. Our signature “Healing Boxes” are assembled and delivered, at no charge, to women who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer at all Swedish Cancer Institute Campuses.
Who We Help:
Northwest Hope & Healing helps women* who come to Swedish Cancer Institute for treatment for breast and gynecologic cancer treatment who are struggling financially. Sometimes, these are women who were low income when they were hit by a cancer diagnosis; sometimes, these are women whose financial resources have been depleted by cancer due to additional expenses or loss of work.
*Occasionally, we help a man diagnosed with breast cancer as well. 2600 men in the U.S. are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. We are glad to help men who seek breast cancer treatment at SCI also.
Northwest Hope & Healing is the only organization that provides direct, immediate assistance to local patients. No long forms, no waiting period. Swedish Cancer Institute distributes 100% of the funds donated by Northwest Hope & Healing to the Patient Assistance Fund for zero fee, in consideration of SCI’s patient needs.
Grants are given in the form of gift cards (for groceries, transportation, gas cards, and more) or direct payment of bills. If a patient is struggling to pay the rent, the social worker can transfer funds to the landlord; if a patient needs help with utilities, the social worker can pay the utility company.
If you are a breast or gynecologic cancer patient undergoing active treatment at Swedish Cancer Institute, you may qualify for one of our grants. Please contact a social worker at SCI 206-386-3228 to learn more.
