Childhood cancer is a leading cause of illness-related death among children.

Lions can support these children and their families.

Why & How:

Thousands of children are diagnosed each year with leukemia, brain tumors, lymphoma, and other rare cancers. Pediatric cancers are usually not preventable, and families often face emotional and financial hardship during extended treatments. Lions Clubs International initiated this global cause to address the growing worldwide impact of cancer on children and their families.

Clubs are encouraged to support initiatives through:

  • Community education about the early signs and symptoms of childhood cancer to improve early detection.
  • Fundraising for childhood cancer programs.
  • Local support for children and families by providing emotional, financial, and logistical support to families navigating a cancer diagnosis.
  • Partnerships with hospitals and nonprofit organizations.
  • Improving treatment access by partnering with hospitals and organizations to fund treatments, research, and healthcare.
  • Enhancing quality of life by offering support programs such as camps, therapy, and recreational activities for children undergoing treatment.

Fundraiser & Service Project Ideas:

Fundraisers:

  • Lemonade Stand Challenge
  • Charity Walk/Run for Childhood Cancer
  • Benefit Dinner or Dance
  • Silent Auction or Online Giving Campaign

Service Projects:

  • Care packages for pediatric oncology units.
  • Toy and blanket drives.
  • Meal support for families during hospital stays.
  • Holiday events for children in treatment.

District Contact:

Julie Balch -- 540-454-2540 -- thomasbalch@verizon.net

Organizations:

Tools:

Updates:

March, 2026 -- From VDG Chuck Schwab
Bringing Hope to Children Battling Cancer -- Childhood cancer is a battle no child or family should face alone. Yet every year, hundreds of thousands of children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer, confronting not only the physical toll of treatment but also the emotional and financial strain that follows. Through the power of compassion and service, Lions are helping ensure that families facing this journey find strength, hope, and practical support when they need it most.

Through the LCIF global cause of Childhood Cancer, Lions are expanding access to life-saving treatment, strengthening health care systems, and delivering comfort to children during their most difficult days. LCIF grants support pediatric cancer wards, fund critical medical equipment, and provide transportation so families can reach treatment centers safely and on time. In many communities, these resources mean the difference between delayed care and timely intervention.

But Lions’ impact reaches far beyond hospital walls. Local clubs organize blood donation drives, assemble care packages, create child-friendly hospital spaces, and offer financial assistance to families struggling with lost income and mounting expenses. In partnership with LCl, Lions also raise awareness about early detection, helping communities recognize symptoms sooner and seek care faster.

Just as important as medical support is emotional encouragement. Lions volunteer their time to read with young patients, celebrate milestones, and remind children that they are seen, valued, and never alone. For parents and caregivers, Lions provide reassurance and a network of support during an uncertain time.

Every grant awarded and every hour volunteered reflects a simple but powerful promise: where there is a need, there is a Lion. Together, Lions are not only fighting childhood cancer — they are touching lives, restoring hope and helping families move forward with courage.

Let’s not forget these children and families as they are fighting their battle against childhood cancer.

January, 2026 -- From Kathy Heil, Spotsylvania Lions Club

There are many ways Lions can provide support to families with a child with cancer. The Spotsylvania Lions made a six-month commitment to provide monthly Community Care Packages. Our goal for the Brick Project raise $4K selling 150 bricks. In addition, we supplied more than 100 items of emotional- support crochet creatures to families. We hosted two Pampered Chef parties with portions of the sales going to FGP, and are hosting a Wine and Fairy Hair event on February 15.

 

Childhood Cancer