The following Terms and Conditions govern The Cancer Foundation’s (TCF) Financial Assistance Program (“the Program”). By applying for or participating in the Program, applicants, clients, and referring professionals agree to abide by these terms. The Program provides limited financial assistance to eligible cancer patients for certain non-medical expenses, subject to the conditions below.

1. Program Eligibility

To be eligible for TCF’s Financial Assistance Program, all the following criteria must be met:

• Residency: The patient must reside in one of the 25 counties in Georgia served by TCF. These counties currently include Banks, Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Franklin, Greene, Habersham, Hart, Jackson, Jasper, Lumpkin, Madison, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Putnam, Rabun, Stephens, Taliaferro, Towns, Union, Walton, White, and Wilkes. Proof of current residence (e.g., a government ID or utility bill showing name and address) in one of these counties is required. A P.O. Box alone is not sufficient to establish residency.

• Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Status: The applicant must have a verified cancer diagnosis. Verification must be provided by a licensed healthcare provider (such as an oncologist or treating physician) or a referring medical social worker. The patient must be in active cancer treatment or receiving hospice care for cancer, or be within six (6) months post-treatment as defined by Program guidelines. “Active treatment” includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone or immunotherapy, or cancer-related surgery. If additional verification is needed, TCF may request a letter from the treating oncologist or physician confirming the diagnosis and treatment status.

• Household Income: The patient’s household income must be at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) for the household size. Income is calculated as the gross (pre-tax) income of the patient and all adult household members, as defined below. Applicants must provide income documentation for all working members of the household (e.g., recent pay stubs, bank statements, benefit award letters, or tax returns as applicable). A written statement explaining the lack of income is required if a patient has zero income. Household is defined as all persons living together in the residence who are related by blood, marriage, committed partnership, or legal adoption and who share financial resources. TCF will assess eligibility for the most recent 6–8 weeks of income information. Note: Income thresholds are updated annually based on federal guidelines; applicants will be evaluated against the current year’s 250% FPG standards.

• Limit on Assistance per Household: If multiple cancer patients are in the same household, each patient may apply separately. Each individual patient must meet all eligibility criteria on their own. Assistance is capped per patient (see Section 2), not per household, so multiple patients in one home may each receive aid if eligible.

Meeting all eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the Program. Eligibility determines if a patient may be considered, but final approval is subject to application completeness, funding availability, and Program discretion (see Section 7: Limitations).

2. Program Benefits

The Cancer Foundation’s Financial Assistance Program provides financial help up to a maximum of $1,000 per eligible patient per calendar year​. This assistance is intended for non-medical living expenses that alleviate financial hardship during cancer treatment. Covered expenses may include, but are not limited to:

• Housing: Rent or mortgage payments to secure housing stability during treatment.

• Utilities: Essential utility bills such as electricity, water, gas, or phone service to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

• Transportation: Costs of travel to and from medical appointments, such as fuel (gasoline) cards, public transit fares, or approved rideshare services for healthcare visits. (Transportation assistance may be subject to monthly limits, e.g. fuel cards up to a certain amount per 30-day period.)

• Insurance Premiums: Health insurance or COBRA premium payments to maintain critical medical coverage during treatment.

• Durable Medical Equipment & Supplies: Purchase or rent necessary durable medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment) or consumable medical supplies not covered by insurance that support the patient’s care at home.

• Dietary Supplements: Expenses for doctor-recommended nutritional supplements are needed due to the cancer diagnosis or treatment side effects (subject to availability and program discretion).

• Transportation Expenses: Fuel (gasoline) expenses to travel to treatment centers or costs related to medical transportation services (such as non-emergency medical transportation, rideshare, or shuttle services to appointments).

• Funeral Expenses: If a cancer patient passes away after being awarded, assistance may be used toward modest funeral or burial expenses, within the $1,000 limit, if not covered by other sources.

Annual Maximum: The total assistance provided will not exceed $1,000 in a calendar year for any one patient. This cap includes all combined payments made on the patient’s behalf. Once a patient has received $1,000 in assistance in a given year, no further applications will be approved until the next calendar year. The Program year runs from January 1 to December 31. Patients may reapply in subsequent years if they continue to meet eligibility requirements, but a new application with updated documentation is required for each year.

Payment Process: TCF does not disburse funds (cash or checks) directly to patients. All approved assistance payments are made directly to third-party vendors or service providers (creditors) on behalf of the patient. For example, TCF will pay the landlord, mortgage, utility, insurance, or other billing entities directly. Applicants will be asked to submit current bills or invoices showing the amount due, account numbers, and payment addresses. These bills must be in the patient’s (or an immediate household member’s) name and correspond to the approved support categories. No cash payments or reimbursements to the patient are provided under this Program. The applicant is responsible for providing accurate billing information and documentation for timely payment.

Non-Covered Expenses: The Program focuses on basic living expenses and supportive services. Medical expenses are NOT covered. This means TCF’s assistance cannot be applied to hospital or clinic bills, doctor or surgeon fees, chemotherapy or radiation treatment costs, co-pays, prescription medications, or any direct medical treatment expenses​. The Program also does not cover non-essential or luxury expenses, credit card bills, or debts unrelated to the cancer impact. TCF will only consider expenses that are a direct financial burden due to the cancer diagnosis and treatment.

TCF reserves the right to determine whether a particular expense is eligible under the Program. Applicants who are unsure whether an expense is covered should consult with a TCF Program staff member before submitting the request.

3. Application Requirements

To apply for assistance, a complete application package must be submitted. Incomplete or partial applications will not be reviewed. The following components and documentation are required:

• Application Form: The official TCF Financial Assistance Program application must be filled out in its entirety. This includes all sections to be completed by the patient (or their guardian/caregiver, if applicable) or a referring professional. The application may be submitted online via TCF’s secure Salesforce portal (see Section 5) or via other accepted methods (mail, secure email, or secure upload as listed on the application form).

• Proof of Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: To verify eligibility for assistance, The Cancer Foundation requires documentation of a confirmed cancer diagnosis and current treatment or a recent treatment status update. Effective immediately, undocumented certifications from referring organizations are no longer accepted. Applicants must submit a signed letter from a licensed healthcare provider on official letterhead, dated within the past six months. This letter must include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, cancer diagnosis, stage of cancer (Stage 0–4), type of active treatment (such as chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, or cancer-related surgery), date of diagnosis, and the date of most recent or final treatment, if applicable. The Foundation does not accept medical progress notes, summaries, reports, or screenshots from online healthcare portals, such as MyChart. Incomplete or non-compliant documentation will delay or prevent application approval.

• Income Verification: Applicants must submit documents to verify household income for all adult members:

• For those with wages or salary: Recent pay stubs for the last 8 weeks (or last pay periods) and/or a letter or statement from the employer verifying year-to-date income. Note: TCF cannot accept employers' hand-written ledgers alone; official pay documents or employer statements are required.

• For those receiving non-wage income (e.g., Social Security, disability benefits, unemployment, pensions): Provide benefit award letters, statements for the last two months, Form 1099, or copies of recent benefit checks.

• For those with self-employment income: Recent bank statements, tax return (if available), or income accounting over the past 2 months, and any evidence of business income or loss.

• If no income: A signed and dated personal statement explaining the situation (e.g., unable to work due to cancer, no current income) or an affidavit letter from the patient and a supporting witness confirming the household has no income.

All income documents should clearly indicate the individual's name and the amounts received. TCF uses these documents to calculate gross household income and determine whether the 250% FPG criterion is met. Applicants may be asked to clarify or provide additional documentation if the information is unclear.

• Proof of Residency: At least one document confirming the patient’s current residence in a covered county must be provided. Acceptable documents include a state-issued ID/driver’s license, voter registration, utility bill, lease agreement, or other official document showing the patient’s name and residential address. The document must be current (generally dated within the last 2-3 months) and include the complete physical address. A P.O. Box alone is insufficient; however, it may be included if the document also shows a physical address. If the patient’s ID does not have their current address (for example, if they recently moved in with family), an additional proof, such as a utility bill or a rental agreement in the patient’s name, should be provided.

• Bills or Invoices for Assistance Requests: For each expense for which assistance is requested, include a current bill, invoice, or statement from the creditor or service provider. The document should clearly show:

• The creditor/vendor name (e.g., utility company, landlord, mortgage lender, etc.).

• The account number or reference number.

• The name on the account, which should match the patient or a household member.

• The amount due and due date.

• The vendor's payment address or electronic payment info.

These documents are necessary so that TCF can verify the expense and process payment directly to the vendor. Only bills that align with covered expense categories (see Section 2) should be submitted. If a bill is not self-explanatory, the applicant or referring professional should include a note of explanation. For example, if requesting help with transportation via a gas card, a note might indicate the amount requested for fuel, since a “bill” may not be applicable.

• Consent and Signatures: The patient (or their legal guardian/power of attorney) must sign the application, acknowledging that all information provided is true and correct to the best of their knowledge, and authorizing TCF to verify the information. The referring professional also must sign as noted above. Electronic submissions through the portal will include equivalent consent steps (e.g., checkbox acknowledgments or e-signatures) binding the applicant to these Terms and Conditions.

Submission: Completed applications and supporting documents can be submitted through the secure online Salesforce portal, or via mail or secure email as specified. TCF will confirm receipt of applications through the referring professional or directly to the patient if contact information is provided. Processing Time: Once all required documents are received, TCF typically reviews and processes applications within 1-3 business days. During periods of high volume or limited staff, processing may take longer, and TCF appreciates applicants’ patience. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as the need is identified; do not wait until bills are overdue or crises emerge, if possible.

4. Data Retention and Client Privacy

The Cancer Foundation is committed to protecting the privacy and security of clients’ personal information. Because the application process involves sensitive medical, financial, and personal data, TCF maintains strict policies on data use, retention, and confidentiality:

• Use of Personal Data: Personal information collected through the Program application (including medical diagnosis details, financial documents, and identifying information) will be used only for the purposes of evaluating eligibility, administering assistance, and program auditing/reporting. TCF will not use a client’s personal information for marketing or fundraising targeting, and will not sell or disclose this information to third parties outside of the assistance process. Information may be shared with TCF staff, board members, or volunteers on a need-to-know basis for application review and approval. In some cases, limited information may be shared with partner agencies or vendors strictly to coordinate payments or services (for example, confirming a payment or arranging transportation), and only with appropriate consent and safeguards.

• Storage and Security: Client application data is primarily stored in TCF’s secure HIPPA-Compliant Salesforce database/portal system. Salesforce is a cloud-based platform with robust security measures, including encryption, access controls, and audit logs. All electronic records in the system are protected by password-controlled access limited to authorized personnel (such as program staff and administrators). Physical documents (for example, if an application is mailed) are scanned into the secure system or stored in locked file cabinets accessible only by authorized staff. TCF employs industry-standard practices to protect data at rest and in transit, such as encryption for files and communications, secure file transfer protocols for any digital submissions, and up-to-date cybersecurity measures to prevent unauthorized access. Employees and volunteers who handle client data receive training on privacy procedures and sign confidentiality agreements as part of their involvement.

• Retention Period: TCF retains client records only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes of the Program and to comply with applicable laws and regulations. Generally, application records and related documents are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years from the date of the last assistance provided, in alignment with best practices for nonprofit record-keeping and any grant reporting requirements. This retention allows TCF to maintain documentation for financial auditing, program evaluation, and any potential follow-up. After the retention period, or when records are no longer needed, TCF will securely destroy or delete personal data to prevent any unauthorized access or disclosure. “Secure destruction” may include shredding physical documents and permanently deleting or wiping electronic files.

• Confidentiality: TCF’s staff and representatives will maintain the confidentiality of all applicants and beneficiaries. Aside from the necessary disclosures for administering payments (e.g., providing the patient’s name or account number to a utility company when paying a bill), TCF will not disclose a client’s cancer diagnosis or financial status without consent. Aggregate data (group statistics that do not identify individuals) may be used in reporting the Program’s impact to donors or stakeholders, but individual identities and personal details will be kept confidential. TCF also abides by any applicable privacy laws. Note: While TCF is not a healthcare provider and therefore not directly subject to HIPAA in the same manner as a hospital, we treat medical information with HIPAA-like care. Any health information provided is handled as Protected Health Information would be, meaning we ensure it remains private and is only used for its intended purpose.

• Client Access and Corrections: Clients have the right to request access to their personal data on file with TCF. If a client wishes to review the information submitted or needs to correct or update something (for example, a change of address or an error in recorded income), they may contact TCF’s office. TCF will take reasonable steps to verify identity before releasing or updating sensitive information. We encourage clients to keep their information up-to-date with us, especially contact information, so we can reach them if needed regarding their application or assistance.

• Privacy Inquiries: If clients or applicants have questions or concerns about how their data is handled, they may contact TCF’s Executive Director at 706-353-4354 or info@cfnega.org. Any data breach or suspected unauthorized access of client data will be addressed promptly in accordance with applicable data breach notification laws. Clients will be notified of any significant incidents that compromise the privacy or security of their personal information.

By applying to the Program, clients acknowledge and consent to collecting and using their personal information as described in these terms. TCF’s full Privacy Policy is available on our website or upon request, which provides additional details on how we protect user data. These privacy practices are designed to comply with Georgia law and relevant federal regulations regarding personal information and charitable records.

5. Salesforce Portal Use

TCF provides an online Salesforce Portal to facilitate secure and efficient submission of financial assistance applications. This portal is used by both applicants (or their authorized representatives) and referring healthcare providers. Use of the portal is subject to the following conditions and expectations:

• Account Access: Some professionals (social workers, nurse navigators, etc.) may have portal accounts to submit applications on behalf of patients. Each user must use their own credentials and must not share login information. If a patient is given access to view or track their application status online, they must protect their login credentials. Unauthorized access or use of another person’s account is strictly prohibited.

• Information Accuracy: Users of the portal must enter truthful, accurate, and complete information to the best of their knowledge. Do not intentionally omit or falsify data. Submitting false information through the portal will be considered a violation of these Terms and may result in application denial and/or termination of portal privileges.

• Authorized Use Only: The portal is to be used solely for the purpose of applying to and managing TCF Financial Assistance Program applications. Any other use, such as data mining, unauthorized downloading of information, or any commercial or improper purpose, is not allowed. Users agree not to attempt to upload any malicious code (viruses, malware) or otherwise interfere with the portal’s functionality or security.

• Privacy and Confidentiality in Portal: The portal contains personal and sensitive data. Users (especially referring professionals) should ensure that they access and use the portal in a private setting where unauthorized individuals cannot view the screen. If using a shared or public computer, always log out after the session and avoid saving login details on the browser. The portal uses encryption (HTTPS) to protect data transmission, but users should also ensure their internet connection is secure.

• Consent for Electronic Communication: By using the portal, applicants and providers consent to receive communications regarding the application through the portal or via email. This may include status updates, requests for additional information, or decision notifications. Users should provide a valid email address and check it regularly for communications from TCF. TCF is not responsible for missed communications due to outdated contact information or unchecked email, so please keep your contact info current in the portal.

• Maintenance and Downtime: TCF will strive to keep the portal accessible 24/7, but there may be scheduled maintenance or unexpected outages. In such cases, users may temporarily be unable to submit or view applications. TCF will not be liable for any delays or issues caused by portal unavailability (see Section 8: Liability). Alternate submission methods (such as email or mail) are available if the portal is down for an extended period – contact TCF if you encounter technical issues.

• Support: For any technical difficulties or questions about how to use the portal, users should contact TCF’s office for support. Do not try to circumvent portal errors by, for example, creating multiple accounts or submitting multiple duplicate applications. Simply reach out for help, and TCF staff will assist or provide an alternative submission method if needed.

• Data Integrity: Information entered into the portal should be reviewed for accuracy before submission. The portal may automatically log certain actions (timestamps of submissions, edits, etc.) for audit purposes. By using the portal, you acknowledge that such logging is in place to maintain the integrity of the application process.

TCF reserves the right to revoke portal access for any user who misuses the system, attempts to compromise security, or violates these Terms and Conditions. Use of the portal is provided as a convenience; choosing not to use it (or loss of access) does not bar someone from applying through other means.

6. Client Behavior and Conduct Expectations

The Cancer Foundation expects all program applicants and beneficiaries (clients) to conduct themselves respectfully and honestly throughout the application process and during the period of receiving assistance. By participating in the Program, clients agree to:

• Honesty in Documentation: Provide truthful, accurate information and authentic documents. Do not alter, forge, or misrepresent any documents (such as income proof or bills). Submitting false information or documents is grounds for denial of assistance and may disqualify the individual from future participation. If a mistake is made in the application, promptly inform TCF rather than attempting to conceal it.

• Respectful Communication: Interact with TCF staff, volunteers, and partnering service providers (e.g., those we pay on your behalf) with courtesy and respect. TCF staff are committed to helping, and we understand the stress of financial hardship and illness. We ask that clients refrain from abusive language, harassment, threats, or discriminatory remarks in all communications (phone calls, emails, in-person meetings, etc.). TCF reserves the right to terminate assistance or decline future applications from individuals who engage in egregiously inappropriate or abusive behavior toward our team or partners.

• Use of Funds for Intended Purpose: Ensure that any assistance received is used for the intended and approved purpose. While TCF pays vendors directly, clients should not attempt to redirect those funds or request refunds from vendors for personal use. For example, if TCF pays a utility bill and the account later shows a credit, that credit should be applied to future utility charges for the patient’s household, and not withdrawn as cash by the client. Misuse of provided assistance or attempting to convert it to personal cash gain is prohibited.

• No Diversion or Fraud: The client should not apply for assistance under multiple identities, or attempt to get duplicate funding for the same expense from TCF by any means. Do not misrepresent your residence, household size, or circumstances to try to qualify (for instance, temporarily changing an address to fall into the service area or hiding income). TCF may verify information through third-party sources; any discovery of fraud will result in immediate denial and possible reporting to authorities if appropriate.

• Follow Program Process: Work cooperatively with TCF. This includes responding to any requests for additional information or clarification in a timely manner, notifying TCF if your situation changes (for example, if you move out of the service area or if you receive assistance for the same expenses from another charity or program), and generally adhering to the application guidelines. If you no longer need assistance or wish to withdraw your application, please inform us so that funds can be allocated to others in need.

• Prohibition on Misuse of Services: Clients should not exploit any aspect of the Program beyond its intent. This includes refraining from any attempt to “sell” or barter items that were paid for by TCF (for example, selling a piece of equipment that TCF helped purchase, unless it is no longer needed and the sale is approved to help cover another need of the patient). If a client’s circumstances change such that an assisted item or service is not needed (for instance, a pre-paid service that is no longer used), TCF should be informed to discuss the proper course (which might include returning funds or redirecting assistance to another approved need).

• Feedback and Surveys: While optional, TCF encourages honest feedback from clients about the Program. Participating in follow-up surveys or providing testimonials (with consent) is appreciated and helps us improve. Whether feedback is positive or negative, we expect it to be provided in a constructive and respectful manner.

Clients who do not adhere to these behavior expectations may face consequences such as termination of current assistance, being deemed ineligible for future assistance, or involvement of legal authorities if laws are broken (e.g., fraud or threats of violence). TCF aims to serve as many patients as possible in a fair and supportive way, and these guidelines help ensure the Program’s integrity and a safe environment for both clients and staff.

7. Program Limitations

The Financial Assistance Program is a charitable service offered at TCF’s discretion. There are important limitations to understand:

• No Guarantee of Assistance: Meeting the eligibility criteria (Section 1) or applying for the Program does not guarantee that assistance will be approved. TCF strives to help all eligible patients, but resources are limited. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis among eligible applicants, or may be prioritized based on urgency of need at TCF’s discretion. All assistance is subject to the availability of funds. If funding for the Program is fully allocated or unavailable at a given time, eligible applications may be delayed or, in rare cases, declined. TCF will inform applicants if funding is a limiting factor and may place some applicants on a waitlist until additional funding is secured.

• Annual and Lifetime Limits: As noted in Section 2, there is a maximum of $1,000 in assistance per patient per calendar year. This cap cannot be exceeded under any circumstances within that year. The Program is intended as short-term relief; it is not a long-term subsidy. Currently, there is no explicit lifetime limit on how many years a patient can receive assistance, as long as they meet eligibility each year, but the Program is subject to change. TCF reserves the right to institute a lifetime cap or limit repeat years of service if necessary to serve more patients, and any such change would be communicated in updated Terms and Conditions or program guidelines.

• Non-Covered Items: As described, the Program does not cover medical treatment costs or certain other expenses. To reiterate, hospital bills, physician or surgeon fees, prescription drugs, and co-payments are excluded from coverage​. Additionally, premiums for life insurance or other non-health insurance, fines or legal fees, and luxury items are not covered. The assistance is focused on necessities (housing, utilities, etc.) during cancer treatment. If an application includes a request outside the allowed categories, that portion of the request will be denied (even if the applicant as a whole is approved for other items).

• Single Grant Use: Assistance is generally provided as a one-time grant or a short series of payments to cover approved needs. It is not an ongoing monthly stipend. Once the approved bills (up to $1,000) are paid, the case is considered closed for that year. Clients cannot submit new expenses later in the year once they have exhausted their $1,000 benefit, even if new hardships arise, until they reapply in the next year. We encourage clients to carefully consider what their most urgent needs are when applying, as we may not be able to address additional requests later.

• Changes in Situation: If a client’s situation changes after approval but before the assistance is delivered (for example, they move out of the area, get a new source of income, or no longer need the assistance for a particular bill), TCF reserves the right to re-evaluate or rescind the approval. Our goal is to ensure funds go to those who need them most. We ask that any significant changes (like moving out of the 25-county area or receiving a large financial windfall) be communicated to TCF promptly. If a patient moves out of the service area after receiving assistance, that will not retroactively disqualify the assistance already given, but it may affect their eligibility for any future applications.

• Not Emergency Aid: While TCF processes applications as quickly as possible (often within 1–2 business days of receiving all documents), the Program should not be viewed as an emergency funding source for same-day needs. There may be short processing delays and coordination with vendors. Patients in crisis (facing immediate utility shutoff, eviction, etc.) should communicate that urgency so we are aware, but even then, instant payment cannot be guaranteed. There is also no after-hours or weekend processing guarantee. Plan ahead to apply before bills become critical whenever possible.

• Coordination with Other Assistance: Patients are welcome to seek help from multiple charities or sources. However, TCF’s policy is that our funds should not duplicate payments that another organization has committed to make. If we discover an overlap (for instance, another nonprofit has already paid the same bill), we will adjust our assistance or recall our payment if possible. We encourage transparency: let us know if you have applied to other resources for the same need. This allows for more efficient use of charitable funds overall. Also note, receiving assistance from TCF might potentially affect eligibility for certain government assistance programs (though generally charitable aid is not counted as income, rules vary). It is the patient’s responsibility to understand any implications and TCF cannot provide legal or financial advice on those matters.

• Program Changes: These Terms and Conditions and the Program’s policies are current as of 2025 but are subject to change. Factors such as changes in laws, funding availability, or best practices could lead TCF to modify eligibility criteria, benefits, or processes. Any material changes will be documented in updated Terms and communicated via our website or to active applicants. All applicants, clients, and referring professionals will be subject to the most recent version of the Terms and Conditions in effect at the time of application submission and approval or payment request and disbursement.

In summary, the Financial Assistance Program is a charitable, supplemental support program. It is limited in scope and resources. It is not a contract of insurance or an entitlement. TCF will do its best to assist those who qualify, but there should be no expectation of continued support beyond the terms described. We appreciate the understanding of clients regarding these limitations.

8. Liability

Limitation of Liability: The Cancer Foundation (including its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents) shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or adverse consequences arising from or related to a patient’s participation in the Financial Assistance Program, to the fullest extent permitted by Georgia law. By applying to and accepting assistance from the Program, the client (and their representatives) acknowledges and agrees to the following:

• No Liability for Denial or Approval Decisions: TCF exercises discretion in approving or denying applications based on the Program criteria and available resources. TCF is not liable for any harm (financial, medical, or otherwise) that may result from an application being denied, partially approved, or approved for less assistance than requested. This includes, for example, any eviction, utility disconnection, or other outcome that may occur because assistance was not provided or not provided to the full amount. The applicant assumes the risk of these outcomes and is encouraged to have backup plans or seek multiple resources for critical needs.

• No Warranties on Assistance: TCF makes no promises or warranties, express or implied, regarding the timing, duration, or impact of the assistance. While we strive to pay vendors promptly and accurately, TCF is not responsible for late fees or penalties if, despite our efforts, a payment does not reach a vendor by the due date. Additionally, TCF cannot guarantee that paying certain bills will achieve specific results (for example, we pay a bill to prevent service cut-off, but the vendor had already cut off service or requires additional fees to restore it, or a landlord still takes legal action despite payment). Clients should communicate and coordinate with their creditors as needed; TCF’s involvement is only to provide payment on the client’s behalf, not to manage the client’s accounts or obligations.

• Third-Party Services and Vendors: TCF’s assistance often involves third-party service providers (e.g., landlords, utility companies, transportation services, medical supply vendors). TCF is not responsible for the conduct, products, or services provided by these third parties. We simply transmit payment or facilitate a service. Any issues with the quality, safety, legality, or other aspects of a third-party service or product are outside of TCF’s control and liability. For instance, if a transportation service (such as a rideshare for medical appointments) is arranged, TCF is not liable for any accidents, injuries, or misconduct by the driver or service. Similarly, if we pay for a piece of medical equipment, we are not liable for any injury or failure related to that equipment. Clients must rely on warranties or remedies provided by the third-party provider.

• Indirect or Consequential Damages: In no event will TCF be liable for indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (such as lost wages due to a delayed payment, emotional distress, etc.) arising from the Program assistance or lack thereof. The purpose of the Program is to provide charitable aid; acceptance of this aid does not create a patient-provider relationship or any guarantee that all issues will be resolved.

• Hold Harmless: Applicants and recipients agree to release and hold harmless The Cancer Foundation and its representatives from any and all claims or liabilities arising from their participation in the Program. This includes any claims related to the handling of personal data (provided TCF has followed the privacy practices outlined), use of the Salesforce portal, or outcomes of assistance decisions, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct by TCF. If a client believes a mistake has been made (for example, a payment was sent to the wrong account), they should notify TCF immediately. TCF will make reasonable efforts to correct any errors within our ability, but this shall not be construed as an admission of liability.

• Legal Compliance and No Waiver of Rights: Nothing in these Terms and Conditions is intended to violate any law or deprive a client of any non-waivable legal rights. Some jurisdictions (including Georgia) may not allow certain liability limitations for nonprofits in specific situations; TCF does not seek to exceed those limitations. To the extent any part of this Liability section is held unenforceable under law, it shall be severed, and the rest of the liability limitations will remain in effect.

• Governing Law and Venue: Any disputes arising from the Program or these Terms and Conditions shall be governed by the laws of the State of Georgia. If legal action is brought, it shall be in the appropriate state or federal courts located in Georgia, unless otherwise required by law. However, we strongly encourage any disputes to be resolved through communication; our goal is to assist, not to engage in adversarial processes.

This Liability section is an important part of the agreement between TCF and Program participants. If you do not agree to these limitations, please do not apply for or accept assistance from the Program. TCF’s resources are offered with the understanding that our liability is limited as stated.

9. Nondiscrimination Policy

The Cancer Foundation is committed to fairness and equality in all of its programs. No person seeking assistance from the Financial Assistance Program will be denied services or given different treatment on the basis of any legally protected characteristic. TCF operates in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including (but not limited to) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination Act, and Georgia state civil rights laws.

Protected Characteristics: TCF does not and shall not discriminate against any applicant, patient, caregiver, volunteer, or staff member on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin (ancestry), age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Our services are available to all eligible persons within our service area who are facing cancer, regardless of personal background or identity. Decisions about assistance are based solely on the criteria described in Section 1 (medical and financial need and residency), and never on bias or prejudice.

Program Accessibility: In line with our nondiscrimination commitment, TCF strives to make the application process and Program participation accessible to people with disabilities or those who have limited English proficiency:

• We will provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. For example, if an applicant is visually impaired, we can assist in filling out forms or accept applications via phone with proper verification. If an applicant has a hearing or speech impairment, we will accept applications through relay services or other assistive technology. Our offices and events are held in accessible venues whenever possible.

• Language assistance is available for those who do not speak English as a first language. TCF can provide translation of application materials (as noted, a Spanish version of the application is available) and may use interpreter services for communications if needed. There is no cost to applicants for any reasonable accommodation or language aid.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment: TCF also prohibits any form of harassing behavior within our Program related to any protected characteristic. All individuals – clients, staff, volunteers, and providers – should be treated with dignity and respect. Any client who feels they have been subject to discriminatory or harassing treatment by a TCF representative or partnering individual is urged to report it to TCF leadership. Likewise, TCF will not tolerate harassment or bigotry from clients directed at our staff or volunteers (as noted in Section 6 on Client Behavior).

Complaint Procedure: If an applicant or participant believes they have been discriminated against in connection with the Financial Assistance Program, they have the right to file a complaint. Complaints can be directed to The Cancer Foundation’s Executive Director. TCF will review such complaints promptly and take appropriate action. Additionally, individuals may file a complaint with relevant government agencies (for example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights, or the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity) if they believe their civil rights have been violated. We encourage resolving issues with us directly if possible, but the law provides these external avenues as well.

Inclusive and Respectful Environment: Our commitment to nondiscrimination is not just about legal compliance, but about fostering an inclusive environment. We welcome patients of all backgrounds. The cancer journey is hard enough without anyone facing additional barriers. TCF’s mission is to alleviate the financial burden of cancer for as many patients as possible in our region, and we can only achieve that mission by treating everyone fairly.

This Nondiscrimination Policy is prominently posted on our website and is part of these Terms and Conditions to ensure all clients and partners are aware of it. By engaging with our Program, you acknowledge this policy and agree to uphold the principles of non-discrimination and respect.