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Frequently Asked Questions
Why was The COC founded?
The COC was founded in October, 2006 as a result of the personal experience of founder, Mary Jenkins. While in active treatment for Stage III breast cancer, Ms. Jenkins in need of financial assistance and unable to find the support she needed founded the COC to ensure that others were not subject to experiencing the kind of financial hardships that she did.
What does the COC stand for?
Just as the widely familiar ‘YMCA’ (Young Men’s Christian Association) was birthed from faith based experiences, the COC - formerly named Christians Overcoming Cancer was a result of Founder Mary Jenkins’ faith based experience battling cancer.
Why was the name changed to ‘the COC’?
The name of the organization was changed to the COC as a result of understanding and evolution. We at the COC help individuals from all circumstances, walks of life, and religions. We’d be remiss not to acknowledge the reality that the previous namesake, Christians Overcoming Cancer, was unintentionally creating a divisiveness and we felt in order to move forward in excellence and inclusivity- the name change was a testament to our awareness and purest efforts to reach more people and ultimately help more of those battling cancer. The COC is commonly referred to as ‘the Cancer Option Collaborative’ which is the work of the organization - Awareness, Emotional Support and Financial Assistance.
Who does The COC serve?
The COC services are available to men, women, and parents of children in ACTIVE cancer treatment.
What services does The COC offer?
The COC offers awareness, emotional support and financial assistance.
Where can I get an application to apply for financial assistance?
An application can be obtained by choosing the To Receive Support button on the Home Page and following the instructions for the Dollars Allocated To Assist (DATA) program
What is the process for receiving financial assistance?
After an application for assistance has been requested, completed and returned to the COC, patient information will be verified for “ACTIVE treatment status” and for the accuracy of the dollar amount requested. Should organization resources permit, a payment will be sent on your behalf to the appropriate creditor.
Who determines “Active treatment status”?
During the verification process, your healthcare professional will determine your “Active treatment status”.
How many times can I apply for emotional support or financial relief services?
While in ACTIVE cancer treatment, emotional support and/or financial relief services can be applied for as often as a need presents itself.
Can I get assistance for the time period before and/or after “active” treatment?
No, the COCs assistance is only available to cancer patients while they are in physician verified ACTIVE cancer treatment.
I don’t live in Columbus, Ohio… can I still get emotional support and/or financial relief services?
Yes, services are available to anyone in ACTIVE cancer treatment regardless of where they live. Restrictions may apply.
If I apply for assistance am I guaranteed to receive help?
Unfortunately, since the COC is funded solely by the donations of the public and business sector, we cannot and do not guarantee our ability to assist with financial relief requests.
WHERE IS THE COC'S office LOCATED?
The COCs Office is located at 81 Mill Street, Suite 300. Gahanna, Ohio 43230.
WHAT IS THE COC’S MAILING ADDRESS?
The COCs C.A.R.E Center mailing address is P.O. Box 307133, Gahanna, Ohio 43230.
(Note: Applications can be sent to main office location previously listed.)
How is The COC funded?
The COC programs and services are funded as a result of generous tax deductible donations received from people and businesses. We are also funded from fund raising events hosted by The COC and others.
I want to help people in active treatment, how can I donate to the COC?
You can donate in support of the COC programs and services in several ways. Please click the To Give Support button on the Home Page for details and/or donate using the Donate tab at the top of the screen. (The (+) at the top of screen if on mobile.)
Does the COC host ticketed eventS to raise money?
Yes, throughout the year the COC hosts ticketed events to raise money in support of our programs and services. Please see the Involvement tab at the top of the page for upcoming event details. (The (+) at the top of screen if on mobile.)
I am good at planning events, can I host one and donate to the COC?
Yes. The COC welcomes the support of those who want to host an event in support of our programs. All events NOT hosted by the COC benefit the Dollars Allocated to Assist program and services of the COC.
What is the difference between an event hosted by the COC and an event benefiting the COC?
Events hosted by the COC are considered “signature events” ones the COC is known for and marketed fully using the the COCs logo and resources. Events benefiting the COC are special events hosted by others in support of our programs and services thus this type event is marketed fully to be in support of the Dollars Allocated to Assist programs and services.
Can people volunteer to help with the COC hosted events?
Yes, people are welcomed to volunteer for the COC hosted events based on our need and their availability to volunteer. You can apply to be a volunteer, as needs arise, at the bottom of the home page.
How can I become a volunteer?
To contribute your time and become a Volunteer for fundraising events and community outreach opportunities as needs arise, please click HERE!