Written by:
Anoushka Pinto
Education Beyond Cancer: 4 Financial Aid Programs for Indian Survivors
Education Beyond Cancer: 4 Financial Aid Programs for Survivors in India
These initiatives understand the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors and aim to empower them with the gift of education, enabling them to pursue their dreams and aspirations despite the adversities they've conquered.
4 Education and Rehabilitation Programs for Cancer Survivors
- Indian Cancer Society Educational Scholarship: Offers targeted financial aid to help childhood cancer survivors resume school, college, or vocational courses.
- Cuddles Back-to-School Initiative: Integrates nutritional planning with basic educational aid for children undergoing outpatient chemotherapy.
- Access Life Education Support: Provides transitional schooling resources, textbooks, and tutoring within patient recovery shelters.
- Corporate CSR Scholarship Schemes: Collaborates with leading financial and pharma companies to fund professional degrees for young adult cancer survivors.
These initiatives understand the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors and aim to empower them with the gift of education, enabling them to pursue their dreams and aspirations despite the adversities they've conquered.
Published on: 21 September, 2023
Published on: 21 September, 2023
A cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering experience, shaking the very foundations of an individual’s world. While the battle against cancer often involves rigorous medical treatments and emotional upheaval, it can also disrupt one’s educational journey, particularly for young survivors.
Various organizations in India recognize this, extending a helping hand to cancer survivors pursuing their dreams of education. These initiatives exemplify the nation’s commitment to nurturing the indomitable spirit of its youth, proving that even in the face of daunting challenges, education remains a beacon of hope.
This article explores four scholarships and financial assistance programs that provide hope and support to these survivors on their path to continued education in India:
1. CanKids Education Scholarship Program by CanKids...KidsCan
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
CanKids offers a scholarship program aimed at supporting cancer survivors and those currently undergoing treatment. This scholarship covers a range of expenses, including school or college admission fees, exam costs, private tuition, school uniforms, textbooks, transportation, vocational courses, training programs, and career counselling. The primary goal of this scholarship is to create opportunities for childhood cancer survivors, enabling them to progress, achieve independence in various aspects of life, and pursue their aspirations.
Financial support provided
- The scholarship offers financial support of up to INR. 50,000 per annum for a maximum of three years.
- Continuation of financial support is contingent on the submission of a progress report every six months i.e after each semester).
- Grounds for cancellation: In cases of poor attendance, subpar performance, or failure (except for medical reasons), the scholarship may be cancelled.
Eligibility criteria
- Applicants should be survivors of childhood cancer.
- They should have successfully completed their Class 12 from a recognized school or college. Submission of the certificate or mark sheet is required.
- Applicants must have taken admission in a vocational or professional course.
- Details of the course and its fees, including the institute’s brochure, should be provided.
- The total monthly family income should not exceed INR 20,000. An undertaking from the father or another responsible person is required to verify this.
How to apply
Individuals interested in applying for this scholarship can contact CanKids through the following means:
Email: info@cankidsindia.org
Contact: +919953591578
Know more
2. Samiksha Scholarships Program by Samiksha Foundation
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
Some years ago, a child was denied readmission to his former school due to struggling grades in Math, a consequence of the disruptions caused by his cancer treatment and financial constraints. At that crucial juncture, Samiksha Foundation intervened, facilitating his enrollment at his school, thereby ensuring the continuity of his education. This incident shed light on the pressing need for financial assistance to support these students who, even after battling cancer, exhibit determination in their pursuit of education.
Following this incident, in March 2018, the Foundation initiated the Samiksha Scholarships Program to support the educational journey of young cancer survivors.
Financial support provided
Following a thorough evaluation of the fee structure and the identification of any supplementary expenses, assistance is provided to cover all educational expenditures. The specific amount of support is not predetermined.
Eligibility criteria
- The student has undergone cancer treatment.
- They have participated in a Samiksha Learning Program or have been recommended by oncologists at one of their learning centres.
- They can provide evidence of pursuing higher education, particularly at the college level.
How to apply
Parents or students can directly approach the organisation to submit their applications, and they will be required to provide the following documents:
- Documentation pertaining to school fees and other educational expenses.
- A copy of the previous year’s academic records.
Address:
No 915, 3rd Floor (Essae Pride Building)
80 Feet Road, Koramangala 6th Block
Bengaluru 560095
Email: admin@samikshafoundation.org
Know more
Website: https://samikshafoundation.org
3. Shiksha by Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA)
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
While initially focused on addressing cancer as a health problem, CPAA has evolved to embrace a holistic approach to cancer survivorship. With a deep commitment to supporting the educational needs of cancer survivors, including children, CPAA works in close collaboration with the medical community. Their comprehensive efforts span various facets of survivorship, from raising awareness and facilitating early detection to providing crucial support during treatment, guidance and counselling, rehabilitation, engaging in research studies, and advocating for survivors’ rights.
Financial support provided
- The organisation coordinates with the educational institution where the child intends to continue their education. After assessing the fee structure and identifying any additional expenses, it extends support to cover all educational costs.
- The exact amount of support is not predefined.
Eligibility criteria
- Children who have previously been associated with the NGO during their treatment period.
- Children coming from underprivileged or below poverty line (BPL) backgrounds.
- Individuals who have received medical treatment at a government hospital.
- There are no age or educational restrictions for those seeking financial assistance.
How to apply
Parents or students can directly approach the organization to submit their applications, and they will be required to provide the following documents:
- Documentation pertaining to school fees and other educational expenses.
- A copy of the previous year’s academic records.
Address:
Dr. Vithaldas Parmar Research & Medical Centre
Unit No. 6, Sumer Kendra
Behind Mahindra Tower
Shivram Seth Amrutwar Road
Worli, Mumbai 400018
Contact: +912224940011
Email: webmaster@cancer.org.in
Know more
Website: https://cancer.org.in/
4. DJ FUND by Indian Cancer Society
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
The Dr. D J Jussawalla Education & Vocational Skills Fund, established in July 2017, addresses the significant financial challenges faced by families of children with cancer. Childhood cancer survivors often undergo treatment during crucial developmental phases, potentially disrupting their education and social connections. This fund aims to provide financial support to these survivors, enabling them to resume their education. The WPP India CSR Foundation is the pioneering sponsor of this comprehensive initiative.
Financial support provided
- Financial assistance for continuing education (with level-specific caps).
- Psychological assessment, IQ testing, and counseling.
- Career guidance and study skills workshops.
- Spoken English classes.
- Participation in support group activities to rebuild confidence and social bonds.
- Home visits or institution visits (case-dependent).
- Quarterly progress assessments with follow-up.
Eligibility criteria
- Students must be between 10 and 20 years of age, with exceptional cases up to 29 years (such as those who experienced gaps in their education).
- Survivors can be considered immediately after completing active treatment.
- Annual family income should be less than 3 lakhs (with advisory committee discretion for merit students).
How to apply
Along with a completed application form, the student is required to submit the following documents:
- Hospital referral letter
- Aadhar card and income certificate
- Fee structure (provided to applicants)
- Previous year’s marks sheet
- Career counselor’s report when applicable
Address:
74, Jerbai Wadia Road
Bhoiwada, Parel
Mumbai 400012
Contact: +912224139445, +912224139451
Email: info@indiancancersociety.org
Know more
Website: https://www.indiancancersociety.org/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there specialized scholarships for pediatric cancer survivors in India?
Yes. Several organizations support children and young adults who have completed cancer treatment by helping them continue their education.
For example:
- Indian Cancer Society (ICS) offers educational assistance and scholarship programs for eligible cancer survivors.
- Some hospital-based charitable trusts and survivor support programs also provide financial assistance for schooling, higher education, and vocational training.
These initiatives aim to help survivors return to normal life and pursue their academic goals after treatment.
2. Which NGOs support the education of children undergoing cancer treatment?
A number of organizations work to ensure that children do not fall behind academically while receiving cancer treatment.
Examples include:
- Cuddles Foundation – While primarily focused on nutrition, it collaborates with hospitals and child-support programs that contribute to overall well-being and continuity of care.
- Access Life Assistance Foundation – Provides accommodation, psychosocial support, and educational activities for children undergoing treatment.
- Indian Cancer Society (ICS) – Supports cancer survivors and patients through various rehabilitation and educational assistance initiatives.
Support may include tutoring, educational materials, learning spaces, and assistance with school reintegration.
3. What documents are required to apply for survivor scholarships?
Documentation requirements vary by organization, but applicants are commonly asked to provide:
- A cancer treatment completion certificate or medical report from the treating oncologist.
- Academic records or previous mark sheets.
- Family income certificate or proof of financial need.
- School, college, or vocational institute admission proof.
- Identity documents of the student and parent/guardian.
- Passport-size photographs and application forms required by the sponsoring organization.
Applicants should always check the specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements of the scholarship provider before applying.
A cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering experience, shaking the very foundations of an individual’s world. While the battle against cancer often involves rigorous medical treatments and emotional upheaval, it can also disrupt one’s educational journey, particularly for young survivors.
Various organizations in India recognize this, extending a helping hand to cancer survivors pursuing their dreams of education. These initiatives exemplify the nation’s commitment to nurturing the indomitable spirit of its youth, proving that even in the face of daunting challenges, education remains a beacon of hope.
This article explores four scholarships and financial assistance programs that provide hope and support to these survivors on their path to continued education in India:
1. CanKids Education Scholarship Program by CanKids...KidsCan
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
CanKids offers a scholarship program aimed at supporting cancer survivors and those currently undergoing treatment. This scholarship covers a range of expenses, including school or college admission fees, exam costs, private tuition, school uniforms, textbooks, transportation, vocational courses, training programs, and career counselling. The primary goal of this scholarship is to create opportunities for childhood cancer survivors, enabling them to progress, achieve independence in various aspects of life, and pursue their aspirations.
Financial support provided
- The scholarship offers financial support of up to INR. 50,000 per annum for a maximum of three years.
- Continuation of financial support is contingent on the submission of a progress report every six months i.e after each semester).
- Grounds for cancellation: In cases of poor attendance, subpar performance, or failure (except for medical reasons), the scholarship may be cancelled.
Eligibility criteria
- Applicants should be survivors of childhood cancer.
- They should have successfully completed their Class 12 from a recognized school or college. Submission of the certificate or mark sheet is required.
- Applicants must have taken admission in a vocational or professional course.
- Details of the course and its fees, including the institute’s brochure, should be provided.
- The total monthly family income should not exceed INR 20,000. An undertaking from the father or another responsible person is required to verify this.
How to apply
Individuals interested in applying for this scholarship can contact CanKids through the following means:
Email: info@cankidsindia.org
Contact: +919953591578
Know more
2. Samiksha Scholarships Program by Samiksha Foundation
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
Some years ago, a child was denied readmission to his former school due to struggling grades in Math, a consequence of the disruptions caused by his cancer treatment and financial constraints. At that crucial juncture, Samiksha Foundation intervened, facilitating his enrollment at his school, thereby ensuring the continuity of his education. This incident shed light on the pressing need for financial assistance to support these students who, even after battling cancer, exhibit determination in their pursuit of education.
Following this incident, in March 2018, the Foundation initiated the Samiksha Scholarships Program to support the educational journey of young cancer survivors.
Financial support provided
Following a thorough evaluation of the fee structure and the identification of any supplementary expenses, assistance is provided to cover all educational expenditures. The specific amount of support is not predetermined.
Eligibility criteria
- The student has undergone cancer treatment.
- They have participated in a Samiksha Learning Program or have been recommended by oncologists at one of their learning centres.
- They can provide evidence of pursuing higher education, particularly at the college level.
How to apply
Parents or students can directly approach the organisation to submit their applications, and they will be required to provide the following documents:
- Documentation pertaining to school fees and other educational expenses.
- A copy of the previous year’s academic records.
Address:
No 915, 3rd Floor (Essae Pride Building)
80 Feet Road, Koramangala 6th Block
Bengaluru 560095
Email: admin@samikshafoundation.org
Know more
Website: https://samikshafoundation.org
3. Shiksha by Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA)
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
While initially focused on addressing cancer as a health problem, CPAA has evolved to embrace a holistic approach to cancer survivorship. With a deep commitment to supporting the educational needs of cancer survivors, including children, CPAA works in close collaboration with the medical community. Their comprehensive efforts span various facets of survivorship, from raising awareness and facilitating early detection to providing crucial support during treatment, guidance and counselling, rehabilitation, engaging in research studies, and advocating for survivors’ rights.
Financial support provided
- The organisation coordinates with the educational institution where the child intends to continue their education. After assessing the fee structure and identifying any additional expenses, it extends support to cover all educational costs.
- The exact amount of support is not predefined.
Eligibility criteria
- Children who have previously been associated with the NGO during their treatment period.
- Children coming from underprivileged or below poverty line (BPL) backgrounds.
- Individuals who have received medical treatment at a government hospital.
- There are no age or educational restrictions for those seeking financial assistance.
How to apply
Parents or students can directly approach the organization to submit their applications, and they will be required to provide the following documents:
- Documentation pertaining to school fees and other educational expenses.
- A copy of the previous year’s academic records.
Address:
Dr. Vithaldas Parmar Research & Medical Centre
Unit No. 6, Sumer Kendra
Behind Mahindra Tower
Shivram Seth Amrutwar Road
Worli, Mumbai 400018
Contact: +912224940011
Email: webmaster@cancer.org.in
Know more
Website: https://cancer.org.in/
4. DJ FUND by Indian Cancer Society
Description
Financial support provided
Eligibility criteria
How to apply
Know more
Description
The Dr. D J Jussawalla Education & Vocational Skills Fund, established in July 2017, addresses the significant financial challenges faced by families of children with cancer. Childhood cancer survivors often undergo treatment during crucial developmental phases, potentially disrupting their education and social connections. This fund aims to provide financial support to these survivors, enabling them to resume their education. The WPP India CSR Foundation is the pioneering sponsor of this comprehensive initiative.
Financial support provided
- Financial assistance for continuing education (with level-specific caps).
- Psychological assessment, IQ testing, and counseling.
- Career guidance and study skills workshops.
- Spoken English classes.
- Participation in support group activities to rebuild confidence and social bonds.
- Home visits or institution visits (case-dependent).
- Quarterly progress assessments with follow-up.
Eligibility criteria
- Students must be between 10 and 20 years of age, with exceptional cases up to 29 years (such as those who experienced gaps in their education).
- Survivors can be considered immediately after completing active treatment.
- Annual family income should be less than 3 lakhs (with advisory committee discretion for merit students).
How to apply
Along with a completed application form, the student is required to submit the following documents:
- Hospital referral letter
- Aadhar card and income certificate
- Fee structure (provided to applicants)
- Previous year’s marks sheet
- Career counselor’s report when applicable
Address:
74, Jerbai Wadia Road
Bhoiwada, Parel
Mumbai 400012
Contact: +912224139445, +912224139451
Email: info@indiancancersociety.org
Know more
Website: https://www.indiancancersociety.org/
If you find that you are not eligible to benefit from the above programs, crowdfunding is also an option that is available to you. In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
If you find that you are not eligible to benefit from the above programs, crowdfunding is also an option that is available to you. In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
Written by:
Anoushka Pinto
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