Photo: Stock Image
Text: Bianca Cortese
In Central Europe, approximately 180 children per million are diagnosed with cancer each year. While four out of five now survive thanks to modern medicine, many continue to struggle with long-term effects years after treatment.
The Invisible Hardship Faced by Families
Many people assume that health insurance covers all costs associated with a cancer diagnosis. “But that is only partly true,” says Fabienne Lemaire, the foundation’s communications director. “When a child requires treatment over many months, parents often reduce their working hours or leave their jobs altogether to provide care. This not only places an emotional burden on families but can also lead to significant financial hardship.” The impact of childhood cancer extends far beyond the patient. “It is not only the children who suffer, but also their siblings, grandparents, and parents,” says Lemaire, who has been working for the CCF since early 2025.
The Foundation Sets the Course for the Future
After more than 25 years of operation, the Foundation Board reflected on how to secure the organisation’s mission for the long term. To strengthen transparency and public trust, the CCF joined the Association of Liechtenstein Charitable Foundations and Trusts as an associate partner. At the same time, the foundation revised its values, mission, and vision. The aim of these measures is to ensure that affected families continue to receive prompt and reliable support. In addition, the CCF modernised its public presence last year with a redesigned website and a new logo. A digital application form now enables social services to process support requests more efficiently while ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. “This ensures that our support reaches those who need it quickly and without unnecessary bureaucracy,” explains Fabienne Lemaire. In 2025, the foundation provided approximately CHF 96,500 in direct financial assistance to affected families in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. It also supported long-term projects, including the Arche-Ferien holiday programme and the KiKli Fit exercise programme at Bern Children’s Hospital, with annual contributions totalling CHF 35,000.
Sports, Music, and Active Engagement
The foundation finances its work through donations and charitable initiatives. One of its key pillars is the Golfen mit Herz initiative, launched by the CCF in 2004 and now established in several countries. Volunteer teams and golf clubs organise local tournaments under this initiative. In 2025, the CCF provided the participating Golfen mit Herz clubs with additional support amounting to approximately CHF 88,000. Another highlight of the reporting year was the White Charity Party, held in August 2025 at Esswerk in Eschen. Around 300 guests, dressed entirely in white, helped raise a total of CHF 36,000. Every ticket sold contributes directly to funding support for affected families. Donations and the commitment of numerous volunteers are the foundation of the CCF’s work. “Together, we can make a real difference. Beyond financial support, we offer affected families hope and the reassurance that they are not alone.”
White Night 2026: A Symbol of Hope
Following the success of last year’s event, the foundation is already looking ahead to the next White Charity Party, which will take place on 22 August 2026. The CCF hopes to welcome another full house this year. A special focus will also be placed on the launch of the new Léman Hope project. Founded in 2011 by Esteban Garcia, the organisation supports young cancer survivors through educational and child protection initiatives. Sailing and shared adventures serve as therapeutic tools, helping participants build confidence and navigate their return to everyday life. The CCF looks forward to welcoming people from all walks of life who will come together on this special evening to send a message of hope, united in white.
