Sending Strength: What’s Inside a TRCF Educational Support Box
Starting college is a challenge for anyone, but for young cancer survivors, it can come with even more obstacles. At The Ruth Cheatham Foundation, we understand that a cancer diagnosis doesn’t just impact health, it can affect nearly every part of a young person’s future, including their ability to afford the basics they need for school.
That’s why we created the Educational Support Box program.
Each box is filled with essential school supplies, comfort items, and wellness tools designed to help young survivors start their school year with confidence, hope, and practical support.
Why These Boxes Matter:
Cancer is one of the most expensive medical conditions a young person can face. In fact, research shows that:
⫸ 62% of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors report financial hardship due to their treatment.
⫸ Many survivors face long-term economic impacts, including medical debt, lost income, and delayed educational progress.
⫸ For survivors returning to school, affording even basic supplies becomes a real struggle..
“The tutoring support, boxes with supplies, and community have all proved to be very valuable resources that fill me (and many other scholars) with a sense of belonging, empowerment, and success.”
JOSEPH B., ANAPLASTIC LARGE CELL LYMPHOMA SURVIVOR & TRCF SCHOLAR
These Educational Support Boxes are designed to ease the transition and bring a moment of relief and encouragement. Inside, our scholars find school supplies, comfort items, and wellness tools. Things like notebooks and pens, mugs for calming tea or energizing coffee, and reminders to rest, breathe, and keep going. Each item is chosen with intention to meet the real needs of our scholars.
It’s not just a box—it’s a message of care.
It says: We see you. We believe in you. You’ve come so far—and we’re with you every step ahead.
Want to be part of this impact?
Your donation helps us reach more young survivors who are starting their next chapter with courage and resilience. Every contribution makes it possible to send another box and another message of hope.
