The Heather Cutler Foundation Announces First Support Grant: Port to Care
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2025
The Heather Cutler Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its first direct support grant for Canadians affected by pancreatic cancer. The Port to Care grant will officially open for applications on August 1, 2025, offering travel and lodging support to rural and remote residents of Newfoundland and Labrador who are experiencing financial hardship related to cancer care.
For many, the cost of getting to care goes far beyond what's covered—ferry fares, gas, hotels, and lost wages can quickly add up. The Port to Care grant provides $500 in support to help ease that burden for those who must travel long distances for scans, treatment, or follow-up appointments.
"Whether you're coming from Labrador, the Northern Peninsula, or deep in the bay, the journey to care can take a real toll—physically, emotionally, and financially," said Christopher Cutler, President of The Heather Cutler Foundation. "This grant is a humble first step, but it reflects our belief that no one should have to choose between their health and their bank account."
Applications open August 1 through the Foundation's website. As this is a new program, only a limited number of grants will be awarded initially. However, the Foundation is actively working toward building future rounds of support as funding grows.
From the beginning—even before gaining registered charity status—the Foundation made it a priority to be crystal clear about how donor dollars are used. "Transparency isn't a marketing strategy for us. It's the baseline," said Cutler. "We want every supporter to know exactly what they're contributing to—and every recipient to know they're not alone."
The name Port to Care was chosen intentionally. While health systems often refer to people as "patients," the Foundation believes that language should be inclusive, grounded, and reflective of lived experience. "We had a bit of fun with the name, because we wanted it to reflect our roots," Cutler added. "We're a Newfoundland organization, and the word 'port' speaks to both place and passage—outport communities, ferry runs, and the real journey people make to reach care."
Looking ahead, the Foundation expects to expand its community support offerings alongside its larger research ambitions. The upcoming From Coast to Cure research grant is in development now and will focus on attracting and diversifying pancreatic cancer research in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Atlantic Canada. The goal is to support work that makes a meaningful difference locally—and brings underrepresented communities and perspectives into the research conversation.
Founded in memory of Heather Cutler and based in Mount Pearl, NL, The Heather Cutler Foundation is a national nonprofit working to improve survival and quality of life for those affected by pancreatic cancer. Its work includes public engagement, policy change, and now, direct support.
The Port to Care grant marks the start of a broader commitment to meaningful, people-centered support—and the Foundation looks forward to building on it with community input and donor trust.
For full eligibility criteria, frequently asked questions, and to apply, please visit:
👉 www.heathercutler.ca/port-to-care (link live August 1)
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