CBF meets Mainers on day one of their cancer treatment.
Many will face financial and nutritional burdens. CBF can help.
Cancer In Maine
Maine’s cancer death rate is significantly higher than the U.S. rate, with eastern Maine counties experiencing the highest rates in the state.
Watch our mission moments and discover more, here.
Understanding the role of nutrition and cancer.
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Proper nutrition is essential during and after cancer treatment. Your preferences, needs, and appetite may change over time. Making the right choices can reduce side effects, increase your strength and energy levels, boost your immune system, and improve your recovery and healing.
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An oncology dietitian is a specialized healthcare professional who provides nutritional support to individuals with cancer. They work with patients before, during, and after cancer treatment to address nutritional needs, manage side effects, and promote overall well-being.
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Nutrition assistance, whether it be grocery packages and/or dietary counseling, should be sought early during cancer treatment, even before side effects become severe.
Seeking help is crucial when you experience weight loss/gain, difficulty eating or swallowing, a decline in energy levels, or are struggling with your financial and mental health.
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Sessions with a dietitian are tailored to your needs and stage of care. Common topics covered with a dietitian could include:
Supporting your immune system
Cancer-related fatigue
Food environment and eating patterns
Survivorship topics
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No, services provided through the Christine B. Foundation are no-cost to those facing cancer. Individual donors, volunteers, and grants cover 100% of the costs.
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Contact CBF to learn more about available services.
Phone: (207) 573-9026 | Email: nutrition@chrisbfund.org
Or, visit our service sites: Northern Light Cancer Care: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 12-3 p.m.
Has your cost of cancer treatment and loss of income impacted your financial security? We may be able to help.
If you live in Piscataquis or Penobscot County and are either in active cancer treatment or recovery, you are eligible for financial assistance from CBF, generously funded by the Maine Cancer Foundation.
Request up to $500 of financial assistance to help reduce the burden of cancer and support vital basic needs like food, housing, transportation, and medical bills.
The application is open from September 1 - September 30, 2026. You can submit a request online or call us to learn more: (207) 573-9026.
2025 Annual Report
“In a year marked by both profound challenges and remarkable innovation, the Christine B. Foundation reached 1,588 patients and caregivers (6% increase).”
-Matt Dexter, Executive Director
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1,500 individuals were supported by CBF in 2024.
93%
Patients seen by CBF agree or strongly agree that their cancer diagnosis impacted their financial security.
75%
Patients seen by CBF start treatment not meeting their daily fruit and vegetable intake.
Facing Cancer with Nutrition
The CBF team is honored to announce our newly named cancer nutrition program, Darling’s Auto Fulfillment Site.
“We know how important it is for those going through treatments and their families to access healthy food and nutrition options. The Christine B. Foundation team has taken that mission and grown it substantially,” said Kevin Tesseo, Vice President of Operations. “We believe in their mission and are thrilled to be part of it.”
Thank you, Darling’s Auto team!
Total Individuals Supported / Yr
1,500
2024
Medically-Tailored Meals* Provided
750,000
Since March 2020
Volunteers + Partners
150
Across 11,500 Square Miles
One Month of Groceries
$160
Produce, proteins, grains, and more
Donate Today
Your gift will provide healthy food and nutrition information to individuals facing cancer. Thank you!
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