For nearly 50 years, Candlelighters has been a trusted partner to families across Oregon and SW Washington confronting a childhood cancer diagnosis. Check out the ways in which Candlelighters programs directly impacted families with our array of services in 2025. Browse and download our Impact Reports to get more information. Read our family stories for more in-depth stories of inspiration and hope.
In-Hospital Programs
9
Catered Dinners and Lunches at OHSU Doernbecher and Randall Children’s Hospital
39
Snack Cart Visits at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital
225
Stuffies Given to Newly Admitted Patients
2,500
Individuals Served
Financial Assistance
x
6
College Scholarships for Childhood Cancer Survivors (Total Amount Awarded: $6000)
150
Families that Received Emergency Financial Assistance (Served 27 counties across Oregon and SW Washington)
x
Events & Affinity Groups
48
Family Events (Portland/Vancouver, Mid-Willamette Valley, Central Oregon, Southern Oregon)
48
Families that Received Gifts through Candy Cane Lane (133 total children including siblings)
89
New Families
397
Families Who Attended Events in 2025 (Across Oregon and SW Washington)
Candlelighters Impact Reports
From Our Families
“Our lives are consumed by our child’s disease and all that comes with this devastating diagnosis. At times we feel helpless as we watch our child endure months, going on years, of pain and horrible side effects. How will we ever survive this?”
“We greatly appreciate everything that Candlelighters has done for our family. There were a lot of times where things seemed hopeless and we were a bit depressed, but Candlelighters events gave us a vital reason to leave our house and connect with others navigating similar struggles.”
“That’s the power of Candlelighters. Being part of a powerful group of connected families who understand and support each other – the power of a newly diagnosed family seeing children who are survivors, and the power of knowing you are not alone as you face this devastating time in your lives.”
“These may sound small, but when your child is facing the unimaginable, something to look forward to in the middle of it—something to smile about—can mean everything. But Candlelighters didn’t stop there. They offered more than kindness; they offered support and connection.”
“One of the biggest draws of Candlelighters is that it doesn’t just focus on the person with cancer, but the whole family. Our older child is always invited to Candlelighters events. Spending time as a family helped us forget about the cancer for a bit and just enjoy time together.”
“We can sense the heart of the program and have felt the love all of you put into making the families and children smile. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. You really have made a difference in our lives.”