Program Description:

Rancho Santa Fe Women’s Fund grant funding supported the Mitchell Thorp Foundation’s Medical & Home Assistance Program, providing critical financial assistance to North County families whose children are battling cancer, rare diseases, and other life-threatening medical conditions. The program helps ease financial stress so parents can focus on their child’s care rather than immediate economic hardship.

Grant funding covered essential needs such as housing, rent, utilities, food, transportation, medical bills, medications, emergency vehicle repairs, and wheelchair-accessible transportation. Families were referred through trusted partnerships with Rady Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Permanente, ensuring that support reached those with the greatest need.

Results:

The program exceeded its goal by assisting 25 North County families, surpassing the original target of 20, using the full $50,000 grant allocation. By tailoring support to each family’s unique circumstances, the Foundation was able to help more families while staying within budget. Beyond financial assistance, families reported reduced stress and greater peace of mind during their child’s treatment and recovery. Hospital social workers and healthcare partners recognized the Foundation as a trusted resource that could respond quickly when other support was unavailable.

The grant also strengthened the Foundation’s relationships with Rady Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Permanente, helping ensure families in crisis receive timely assistance. 

Future Plans:

The Mitchell Thorp Foundation will continue making the Medical & Home Assistance Program a top priority as demand for assistance continues to grow. The Foundation plans to sustain and expand the program through grants, individual and corporate donations, community fundraising events, and other philanthropic support.