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
“Through the years, Candlelighters became our family and our support. It was our comfort when we needed to be surrounded by those who understood and a reminder that you don’t have to go through cancer to change the lives of those who are.”
“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.”
“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.”
“I feel a sense of belonging with our local Candlelighters community. I appreciate every event and gathering they treat us to, but mostly I appreciate the love and compassion they give. They are a shelter through the storm.”
“When a child gets diagnosed with cancer, it becomes a FAMILY disease. Everyone needs something special to get through it and develop that ‘new normal’.”
“Our first year with Candlelighters revealed an outpouring of love and support. Candlelighters is important because It helps families not just survive childhood cancer but find community, hope and stability during and after treatment.”