The Comunale Cancer Foundation is an Ohio nonprofit dedicated to easing the burden of cancer for patients and families in Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, and Wayne counties. Established in 2006 after the death of Stephen Comunale, the Foundation was created by his family and friends to provide meaningful, timely support to others facing cancer. Since then, it has distributed millions of dollars to thousands of families.

The Foundation’s year-round Financial Assistance Program offers direct, practical grants to people who live in or receive cancer treatment in its service area. It also provides free programs designed to support patients and families beyond immediate financial needs, including Holiday Meals, Sunshine Bags, Stephen’s Fun Day, and Jane’s Sunshine Fund. Through partnerships with hospitals, oncology centers, and other local organizations, the Foundation helps connect people with additional services, such as food pantries, a wig boutique, and back-to-school support.

Based in Akron, the Foundation relies on donors and community partners to make its assistance and programs available at no cost to participants.