Maine Cancer Foundation (MCF) recently awarded seven Cancer Prevention grants, totaling $466,328. These two-year grants will support projects that will reduce cancer risk for Mainers through multiple evidence-based initiatives.

 

"Cancer remains a leading cause of death in Maine, impacting thousands of residents each year," said MCF, in a news release. "However, there are numerous ways to reduce cancer risk and even prevent certain types of cancer, ultimately reducing the burden of the disease in our state."

 

MCF has invested over $6.7M into cancer prevention efforts in Maine and, as an essential component of cancer control, reducing cancer risk will remain a core area of investment for the Foundation.

 

For this 2026 round of grants, funded projects will educate young people on the dangers of tobacco and its connection to cancer, reduce tobacco use among adults with a behavioral health diagnosis, implement healthy eating active living strategies in rural communities, address alcohol use through workplace wellness initiatives, and improve sun safety efforts across the state to prevent skin cancer.

 

"By implementing these evidence-based cancer prevention strategies, these projects will reduce the risk for many types of cancer," said MCF.

 

 

Bangor Public Health and Community Services, 30-Day Alcohol Reset Challenge, $41,328

 

Camp CaPella, Sail Into the Shade: A Sun Safety Initiative for Camp CaPella, $30,000

 

Augusta Teen Center, Turning the Tide on Tobacco: A Longitudinal Tobacco Early Intervention Model for Rural Maine Youth, $80,000

 

IMPACT Melanoma, Sun Safe for ME, $80,000

 

MaineHealth – Center for Tobacco Independence, Integrating Tobacco Treatment to Reduce Cancer Risk in Behavioral Health Patients $80,000

 

Northern Light Sebasticook, Sebasticook Valley Tobacco and Vape Prevention, $80,000

 

Piscataquis Regional Food Center, Nourish Piscataquis: A Healthy Eating Initiative, $75,000

 

“Many cancers are preventable, which makes these investments among the most impactful we can make” said Ray Ruby, MCF’s Executive Director. “These grants support evidence-based strategies that empower individuals and communities to make healthier choices, address risk factors, and create lasting change for generations to come.”

 

In 2026, MCF is on track to invest over $2 million in grants to organizations across Maine. All funded programs support cancer prevention, early detection, and improved outcomes statewide.