St. Baldrick’s Foundation Grants $1.2 Million for Childhood Cancer Research

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, recognized as the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research in the United States, has awarded nearly $1.2 million in grants aimed at advancing research and treatment options for children battling cancer. This funding continues the foundation’s commitment to developing safer and more effective therapies for pediatric patients.

Of the total funds, almost $1 million has been allocated to Infrastructure Grants. These grants are critical in supporting pediatric cancer clinical trials, which are essential for translating groundbreaking research into viable treatments. By bolstering the teams involved in these trials—comprising clinical research associates, nurses, and support staff—the foundation aims to enhance access to clinical trials for children, which often represent their best chance for a cure.

In addition to the Infrastructure Grants, a further $200,000 has been awarded as a Research Grant, made possible through the generous contributions of Jack’s Pack – We Still Have His Back, a fund established in memory of Jack Klein from Indianapolis, IN. Diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma in 2015, Jack’s inspiring journey has motivated a dedicated community to support vital research initiatives. This grant has been awarded to Dr. David Dominguez-Sola at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, NY. The funding will facilitate research aimed at developing more targeted and less toxic treatments for this aggressive form of cancer.

Kathleen Ruddy, CEO of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, expressed gratitude to supporters for their role in making these grants possible. “Each of these Infrastructure Grants funds promising clinical trials that turn discoveries into real treatments,” Ruddy stated. “Thanks to our supporters, we’re moving closer to cures and giving kids the chance not just to survive, but to truly thrive.”

The institutions receiving Infrastructure Grants span across the United States and include:

– Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Arizona
– Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, California
– Children’s Mercy, Missouri
– UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Pennsylvania
– Baylor College of Medicine, Texas

These grants are set to enhance the capabilities of each institution in conducting impactful research and clinical trials.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation has a long-standing commitment to funding childhood cancer research, having awarded over $369 million since its inception. Every two minutes, a child is diagnosed with cancer globally, and in the U.S., one in five will not survive. By investing in research at various stages—from lab innovations to clinical trials—the foundation aims to ensure that children receive the best available treatments.

The next round of grants is scheduled for announcement in March 2026, supported by ongoing donations. For more information on their initiatives and how to contribute, visit stbaldricks.org/grants.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation remains a vital force in the battle against childhood cancer, playing a pivotal role in advancing research and fostering innovation in the field.