Most people don't hear about the Candlelighters Family Support Group until they need them. But that is something the local nonprofit is hoping to change, said Chattanooga Chapter President Connie Edwards.
The all-volunteer organization has worked with hospital social workers to provide financial assistance to families of children with cancer since the 1980s, offering help with car and mortgage payments, Christmas presents and, when needed, funerals.
"Almost all of what we make [fundraising] goes immediately back to the families in need, since we have no salaries to pay," Edwards said. "The money goes right back to the people who need it."
Just through word of mouth, the Candlelighters' message is already growing. The group's ninth annual golf tournament and fundraiser held last month at Bear Trace Golf Course netted more than $7,000 - more than doubling profits from 2016. Next year, for the 10th annual event, Edwards hopes to see that total go even higher.
"Think about if your child was stricken with cancer. Think about if you have to quit your job to be with that child," she said. "What if you couldn't pay your house payment? You couldn't pay your electricity? What if you had to worry about all that and then also the health of your sick child?"
For more information about the Candlelighters, to volunteer or to donate, call 827-0800 or find Candlelighters Family Support Group of Chattanooga on Facebook.