About the Cancer Patient Support Program

The Cancer Patient Support Program (CPSP) is a free and comprehensive support service created by cancer survivors and others touched by the disease. CPSP is open to any Vermont and Upstate New York resident who has received a diagnosis of cancer and for the families of cancer patients. Facing a diagnosis of cancer can be a time of fear, anxiety, and questioning. Trying to understand and cope with the challenges that arise following a diagnosis can be difficult.

The Cancer Patient Support Program helps cancer patients and their families through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery by providing the following cost-free support services:

  • Emergency Fund – The CPSP Emergency Fund is designed to try to meet the financial need of cancer patients who find themselves in financial crisis due to their illness. The Cancer Patient Support Program’s Emergency Fund services include but are not limited to:
    • Emergency food and shelter assistance
    • Telephone and heating bills during time of crisis
    • Transportation support if needed for care plan
    • Medically appropriate supplies not covered by insurance
    • Medications
    • Childcare to allow a parent to get cancer care
  • Counseling – Clinical psychologists knowledgeable about the issues that cancer patients and their families face, both during and after treatment, provide psychological support services that include one-on-one counseling, family counseling, crisis intervention, and the creation and mentoring of support groups.
  • Nutritional Support – Providing a nutritional educational program is critical to enhancing the quality of life for patients at all stages of their illness and recovery. A dietician skilled in the unique nutritional issues facing cancer patients is available in the clinic and by phone or email for consultation, visitation, and advice.
  • Resource and Lending Library – A library is available in the Hematology/Oncology Clinic at Fletcher Allen Health Care for patients to access information about their illness, coping with a cancer diagnosis, and caring for the cancer patient. Books, pamphlets, videos, and computer websites are there for you to use to help you learn about and deal with the physical and emotional aspects of cancer.
  • Educational Seminars
  • Knowledgeable Volunteers – Specially-trained volunteers offer comfort and support during patient visits
  • Referrals to Other Resources —The CPSP works collaboratively with other service providers working with cancer patients and provides information and referrals for additional support services.

The Cancer Patient Support Program is an independent non-profit organization that is funded primarily by donations from those in the community it serves. The Program’s goal is to provide help today and hope for tomorrow.

To contact the Cancer Patient Support Program, please call (802) 847-4848 or 1-800-358-1144 ext. 4848, or ask a member of your health care team or a volunteer to call for you.

You can also visit our website at http://www.cpspvt.org.

Cancer Patient Support Program
P.O. Box 64700
Burlington, VT 05406

Donate

The Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival will be raising funds for the Cancer Patient Support Program’s Emergency Fund. If you would like to make a donation to the Cancer Patient Support Program’s Emergency Fund: