About Careity^® Foundation

Careity Foundation is a Texas 501(c)3 with two initiatives. Careity is dedicated to providing on site support services in an oncology setting for economically challenged cancer patients and through early detection in North Texas. The pediatric palliative care program is directed at providing relief to children with devastating diseases and life threatening illnesses at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth.

Since its inception, Careity Foundation has set the platinum standard in the nonprofit community. Indeed, we have established ourselves as leaders. Careity Foundation was the first in the nation to offer oncology massage in the chemotherapy room to relieve the side effects of drug therapy in patients.

In 2009 we introduced an unprecedented expression of compassion for women in our community, as Careity Foundation initiated the first annual Careity Day offering free mammograms to underinsured residents of Parker, Johnson and Tarrant Counties in Texas. Any Careity Day participant diagnosed with breast cancer recieves individualized treatment — including biopsy, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hospitalization — this service is provided cost-free by Careity Day partners. The effort is believed to be the first private initiative of its kind in the United States. In 2009 more than 200 women took advantage of this opportunity.

Collaborating with Medical Professionals.

Strong partnerships produce strong programs. Careity Foundation works alongside the staff at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, as well as Moncrief Cancer Resources, to make sure effective and necessary services are provided. Based on a shared vision, Careity's professional caregivers reach those who need our services at The Center's various facilities. We also extend the reach of Moncrief Cancer Resources' mammography mobile units and dietary screening into Parker and Johnson Counties. In addition to these collaborators, Careity works with Cook Children's in support of their Pediatric Palliative program through production of "Branded," an upscale western production and style show.

Accessing Patients Personally.

The heart of Careity Foundation's program lies in our use of specialized professionals to create substantial, personal relationships with patients as a basis for care. Careity's cancer navigator provides visits to patients during their chemotherapy treatments. Careity's oncology massage therapy and acupuncture programs bring alternative relief when necessary. Nutritionists identify dietary needs, and nutritional supplements are provided by Careity. Our psychotherapy and spiritual counseling programs assist patients and their families throughout their treatment, and Careity-provided gas cards further relieve the burden of the economically disadvantaged.

Reviewing Progress and Needs.

At Careity Foundation, we are active participants in the care and treatment process. Strong oversight of the programs we fund and support assures that the vision and strategies outlined in the collaborative process are effectively realized. The Careity founders meet several times a year with our collaborators and physicians. We receive regular reports from our professional staff to ensure appropriate levels and propriety of care.

Engaging the Community.

Underlying the success of Careity Foundation's mission is the involvement of the communities in which we live. Besides the professional staff, doctors, and administrators who devote their time and resources to the care of economically challenged cancer patients, we are encouraged by the many individuals, celebrities, civic organizations, businesses, NCHA, and members of the media who undergird this work with their generosity. Our hats — and those of many cancer patients — are off to each one of you.

The second and newest event for the Careity Foundation titled “Branded” was held for the first time in  2006 and raised startup funds for a new Pediatric Palliative Care Program at Cook Children’s in Fort Worth. Through Careity Foundation support, that program is now open. The “Branded” event has become an annual event, with funds specifically directed at this time to pediatric palliative care.

The needs of cancer patients and their families span the gamut from medical and psychological needs to spiritual and emotional issues of the family while coping with treatment. The Careity Foundation provides funding for supportive clinical services including nutritional counseling, pain management services, training and education for caregivers, and assistance in navigating the healthcare system. The Careity Foundation also helps identify individual needs of cancer patients and helps provide funding to meet those newly identified needs.