Maine Cancer Foundation, the state’s premier grant-funding organization, issued its annual call for grant request on Monday. Twice a year, the foundation accepts applications from Maine-based organizations that provide support services for cancer patients or education and screening programs.

“Maine currently suffers the second-highest incidence rate of cancer in the nation,” said Cullen McGough, director of communications for the foundation. “Although 80 percent of our annual grant money is directed to research programs, the need for patient services in Maine is just too high to ignore.” The foundation will select and distribute approximately $100,000 as part of their fall grant cycle.

In fiscal year 2013, Maine Cancer Foundation has already issued 29 grants equal to $1,268,028, with approximately $207,000 directed to patient support and education efforts.  See mainecancer.org/all-grants-by-year.

“We strongly encourage eligible organizations to apply,” said McGough. “The people of Maine have been very generous with their donations to support the fight against cancer, and we want to put their money to work as quickly and effectively as possible.”

Maine Cancer Foundation has previously funded organizations involved in treating the molecular origins of cancer, understanding the role of genetics in cancer, promoting cancer prevention methods, early detection/screening strategies, assisting patients and their families in dealing with a cancer diagnosis, transportation for cancer patients, educational outreach on cancer issues, navigator programs and hospice care for cancer patients.

For more information email info@mainecancer.org or call 207-773-2533.