Emmanuel Cancer Foundation (ECF) is New Jersey's no-cost, in-home support agency for pediatric cancer patients since 1983. The mission of ECF is to preserve the quality of life for any New Jersey family whose child has been diagnosed with cancer. We accomplish that mission through our three pillars of support: Emotional counseling, Material support and Emergency financial aid.

Description:
ECF provides direct services to families that have a child diagnosed with cancer, ECF is a state-wide New Jersey not-for-profit organization, 501(c)(3), funded privately by the contributions of individuals, corporations, foundations, and community groups. ECF's service program is provided free-of-charge to all families.

Children and their families receive a comprehensive package of individual support, beginning with counseling from professional Caseworkers available to them 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Regional Center Directors distribute clothes, food, toys, and household items. Emergency financial aid is designated to help families through a crisis situation.

History:
In December 1980, seven-year old Emmanuel "Manny" Vizzoni was diagnosed with cancer. The shock of their child being stricken with this disease, the sadness and heartbreak of the diagnosis, was just the beginning for Manny's parents, Susan and Joseph Vizzoni.

As Manny began treatments, it became clear to his parents that while their healthcare team was able to do a great deal to treat his illness, emotional support was not readily available, and they began to feel the effects on their overall quality of life.

Sadly, after just one year, the Vizzoni's lost Manny to cancer. As time went on, they found a renewed strength and determination to help other families battling pediatric cancer and in 1983, established the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation (ECF) in memory of their son.

Since its inception, ECF has served over 1600 families and has become known for providing emotional, material and even financial support to families battling pediatric cancer. Major hospitals all over New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and even Delaware refer their pediatric oncology patients to ECF so that we may begin to treat the overwhelming emotional consequences affiliated with cancer.

Contact people:

Barbara Kopel, (phone), (email) Carol Davis, Managing Director, (phone)

Office fax number: (908) 322-0230

Address:

1833 Front Street Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.emmanuelcancer.org