One of the first gifts expecting parents often receive is a teddy bear. The classic plush toy can elicit a sense of comfort and support that families with new babies need. And it’s why the 23-year-old nonprofit founded by Nikki Katz named itself after one.
The Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) has been supporting families with a child battling cancer in the tri-counties since 2002. A resource and support center, the organization has served 1,145 families since its inception under three core programs: emotional support, financial stability, and educational advocacy.
TBCF steps in from the moment a family learns the devastating news of a diagnosis in the hospital. A Family Care Manager is sent to the hospital or a care bag with hospital-ready items is mailed with things like quilts, socks, phone chargers, and more. “It’s an introduction care package,” says Kirsten Stuart, Communications & Events Director.
That introduction is the first in what becomes a lifelong relationship between families and TBCF; it’s the “bear” hug that every family needs during an unbelievably isolating time. The relationship includes everything from immediate direct financial assistance for low-to-moderate income families, and serves everyone in need with gas cards, grocery gift certificates, hospital voucher stays, and more.
“The critical resources offered through our core programs provide comfort by stabilizing a family’s foundation. It’s a little stability while the family is upside down,” says Stuart.
Support groups are available in English and Spanish for every family member, from teens, siblings, and parents. A robust volunteer program delivers gifts and volunteer-assembled baskets are delivered for every holiday. Exclusive events foster a community support network for families going through similar battles, and help to make an impact beyond hospital stays with events like surf days, family fun day, dad’s BBQ, and a Mother’s Day Spa.
“If you’re a low-income family before cancer, chances are you’re almost destitute once cancer strikes,” says Stuart.
For many children undergoing drastic treatments, schooling is often put on the back burner. As part of the program’s educational advocacy, children and young adults are given access to tutoring services as well as neuropsychological testing. Testing is crucial to help “determine post-treatment strengths and weaknesses,” says Stuart, when a child has spent formative years in a hospital rather than a playground. Every service that falls under TBCF’s core programs understands the complete cycle a family goes through during their cancer journey and ensures no one is left behind.
This September, during National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the nonprofit hosts its largest fundraiser of the year. On September 27, the 2025 Golden Gala will be held at a supporter’s private estate overlooking the Pacific.
While the evening's festivities are glamorous–you can bet emcee and auctioneer Andrew Firestone will wear something dazzling–the event’s mission is the most important takeaway. “My job is for everybody to leave the event not thinking about the decor, but thinking about the foundation,” adds Stuart. teddybearcancerfoundation.org
Tickets for the 2025 Golden Gala can be purchased at: www.teddybearcancerfoundation.org/goldengala