From Screening to Support: REACH Grants Are Expanding Lung Cancer Access in North Carolina
At Lung Cancer Initiative (LCI), we believe meaningful change happens closest to home. That’s why we’re proud to announce the recipients of our 2026 REACH Community Grants, awarding $30,000 total to organizations across North Carolina that are improving access to lung cancer education, screening, and support.This year, three local organizations each received a $10,000 grant to advance innovative, community-driven projects that address gaps in care—especially for individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, or disproportionately impacted by lung cancer.
“Furthering access in local communities to lung cancer education, early detection, treatment, and clinical trials resources is critically important,” said Paige Humble, Chief Executive Officer of Lung Cancer Initiative. “We are honored to be able to support and collaborate on three important projects this year.”
The 2026 REACH Grant recipients reflect the power of collaboration, compassion, and creativity in meeting people where they are.
2026 REACH Grant Recipients
Ease Your Energy, Heart-Brain Resilience Workshops
Ease Your Energy will offer a series of Heart-Brain Resilience Workshops throughout 2026 for lung cancer survivors, thrivers, caregivers, and families. Based on more than 20 years of research from the HeartMath Institute, these workshops teach practical, science-backed techniques to help participants regulate stress, find emotional balance, and feel more empowered during their cancer journey.
“Our goal is simple: give people facing lung cancer and their loved ones tools to feel more in control, at peace, and better equipped to navigate whatever comes next,” said Lori Ives-Godwin, President of Ease Your Energy.
Scotland Memorial Foundation, Expanding Access to Low-Dose CT Screening
Scotland Memorial Foundation will use REACH funding to provide free low-dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screenings at Scotland Health Care System. This project helps remove financial barriers for patients who may not otherwise have access to potentially life-saving early detection.
“The prevalence of lung cancer is high in the communities we serve, and these funds will ensure some of our most vulnerable citizens receive this potentially life-saving screening,” said Misty McMillan, Executive Director of Scotland Memorial Foundation. “LCI is a great partner in our effort to bring safe, high-quality, and compassionate healthcare to our friends and neighbors.”
FirstHealth of the Carolinas, FirstHealth Lung Bus Expansion
FirstHealth of the Carolinas will expand access to lung cancer screening through its mobile imaging unit, the FirstHealth Lung Bus. The Lung Bus brings free low-dose CT screenings directly into communities across the region while also raising awareness about the importance of early detection.
“This generous funding allows us to bring life-saving early detection services directly into underserved communities and remove barriers so more North Carolinians have access to low-dose CT screening when they need it most,” said Mickey W. Foster, CEO of FirstHealth of the Carolinas.
About the REACH Community Grant Program
The REACH Community Grant Program—formerly known as the Access Grant—has supported community-based lung cancer initiatives since 2016. Each year, the program awards up to three $10,000 grants to nonprofit organizations and institutions working collaboratively to support the entire lung cancer community.
To date, the program has awarded more than $230,000 to 19 organizations across North Carolina. REACH grants support new or expanded programs that:
- Promote lung cancer education and awareness
- Improve access to screening and care
- Support complementary and holistic health services
- Advance health equity in communities with demonstrated need
We’re honored to stand alongside these organizations as they bring hope, access, and care to communities across our state.
Click the link below to learn more about the REACH Community Grant Program and other funding opportunities.