Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — September 2027

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Childhood Cancer Awareness Month unites communities throughout September to shine a light on pediatric cancer. This vital observance aims to educate the public about the disease, support affected families, and fund critical research. Join the movement by wearing gold, donating, and spreading awareness to help save young lives.

Want to sponsor Childhood Cancer Awareness Month? Learn how

Expected Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Deals

During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the focus shifts from commercial deals to impactful fundraising and awareness initiatives. Organizations like the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital partner with corporations for donation match programs, virtual walks, and branded merchandise sales. Retailers such as Target and Walmart often feature gold ribbon products or offer roundup-at-checkout options, directing proceeds to pediatric cancer research. Brands like Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (while a non-profit, it inspires many corporate tie-ins) mobilize community events, while companies like Hyundai Hope on Wheels run long-standing campaigns. To contribute, visit the official websites of these leading organizations for direct donation links and information on local events.

Platform Guide for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #ChildhoodCancerAwarenessMonth. Share personal stories, host live Q&As with experts, and promote fundraising events to your community.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #GoGold. Post photos and reels featuring gold ribbons, share infographics about childhood cancer facts, and highlight stories of resilience.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #ChildhoodCancerAwarenessMonth. Participate in trending conversations, share research updates, and amplify calls to action from leading organizations.

Social Media Tips for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Individuals

Wear a gold ribbon throughout September to show your support. Share educational posts on social media and encourage friends and family to learn more about early detection and research efforts.

Creators

Produce content that raises awareness, such as interviews with pediatric oncologists, stories from survivors, or videos explaining the impact of donations. Encourage your audience to 'Go Gold' and contribute to research.

Brands

Launch a donation-matching campaign for the month, create limited-edition gold-themed products with proceeds benefiting a charity, or sponsor a local fundraising event. Highlight your commitment to the cause across all marketing channels.

Organizations & Brands for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

  1. American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO)

    Founded in 1977, ACCO is one of the oldest and largest grassroots organizations dedicated to childhood cancer. They provide support to children with cancer and their families, advocate for policy changes, and fund critical research.

  2. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

    Established in 1962 by Danny Thomas, St. Jude is a leading pediatric treatment and research facility focused on children's catastrophic diseases. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food.

  3. Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF)

    Inspired by Alexandra 'Alex' Scott, who started a lemonade stand to raise money for childhood cancer research, ALSF has since raised over $250 million. The foundation funds research, supports families, and empowers others to get involved.

  4. Children's Oncology Group (COG)

    The COG is the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. It unites more than 10,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 200 children's hospitals and universities worldwide.

  5. Hyundai Hope On Wheels

    Since 1998, Hyundai and its U.S. dealers have donated over $200 million to pediatric cancer research through their Hope On Wheels program. They fund grants and scholarships to hospitals and research centers nationwide.

  6. CureSearch for Children's Cancer

    CureSearch is a national non-profit foundation that funds and supports children's cancer research. They work to accelerate the pace of new discoveries and treatments, aiming to end childhood cancer.

  7. Make-A-Wish Foundation

    Founded in 1980, Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, including cancer. These experiences provide hope, strength, and joy to children and their families during challenging times.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Hero

Dr. Donald Pinkel

Dr. Donald Pinkel (1926-2022) was a pioneering pediatric oncologist who co-founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in 1962. He developed the first successful curative treatment for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), significantly improving survival rates from near zero to over 50%. His integrated approach to treatment, combining chemotherapy, radiation, and supportive care, became a model for modern cancer therapy. Dr. Pinkel's relentless dedication transformed the outlook for countless children with cancer.

History of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

The month is recognized as the time to host the annual national health campaign regarding cancer in children. During these months, many organizations collect funds, host events, and create awareness regarding cancers that have taken the lives of thousands of children. The American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO) in particular, encourages everyone to wear gold for the kids – all the survivors, the victims, as well as those who are still fighting the disease. The organization was founded in 1970 by parents of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, and it stands tall as the oldest and largest organization dedicated to the cause. ACCO also places great importance on forming policies that support cancer research, awareness, and education. The organization is also a member of Childhood Cancer International and has helped support more than half a million families over the past 50 years.

To further assist such firms in fighting cancer, President Obama declared September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2012. This is because pediatric cancer is the leading cause of death for children under 14. However, before this, the “National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day” Resolution was also passed on May 23, 2008. The resolution that was pushed forward by Senators Wayne Allard and Hillary Clinton recognized September 13 as the special day. Furthermore, in September 2019, Senator Joe Manchin passed a resolution to designate September as “National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month”. A proclamation was also signed in 1990 by President George Bush to term October as the National Awareness Month for Children with Cancer.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month timeline

1955
Studying and Research

The Acute Leukemia Chemotherapy Cooperative Study Group A (ALCCSGA) is formed.

1970s
The Painful Remedy

Combinations of multiple chemotherapy drugs emerge.

1980s
New Beginnings

Bone marrow transplantation outcomes are improved for kids and a few new chemotherapy agents are introduced.

2007
Breaking Barriers

The Children's Oncology Group (COG) has over 70,000 children with cancer.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Local businesses can play a crucial role in Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by hosting fundraising events or dedicating a portion of September’s sales to a pediatric cancer charity. Consider partnering with a local children’s hospital or a national organization like CureSearch for Children’s Cancer for a donation match program. Restaurants could offer a special ‘gold ribbon’ dessert, with proceeds going to the cause. Retailers might create a window display featuring gold ribbons and educational materials, encouraging customers to learn more and donate. Authentic engagement and clear communication about the impact of contributions are key.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month FAQs

When is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?

In 2027, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month will again be observed throughout September, from Wednesday, September 1, to Thursday, September 30. This annual observance is dedicated to raising vital awareness and support.

How many children are diagnosed with cancer each year?

While precise numbers fluctuate, the American Cancer Society estimates that roughly 15,000 children and adolescents in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in 2027. This consistent rate underscores the ongoing need for awareness and research.

What is the survival rate for childhood cancer?

The five-year survival rate for all childhood cancers continues to improve, standing at over 85% in recent years. This remarkable progress is a testament to dedicated research and improved therapies, though more funding is always needed to reach 100%.

What does the gold ribbon symbolize for childhood cancer?

Adopted in 1997, the gold ribbon serves as a powerful emblem for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Its golden hue signifies the value of children and the hope for a cure, acting as a visual reminder of the ongoing battle against pediatric cancer.

How to Observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

  1. Host a charity event

    Do you want to do something great this month? Host a charity event and donate all the funds to the nearest childhood cancer organization.

  2. Donate

    If you can’t organize an event, do your part by donating an amount that you are easily able to afford. You can also convince your friends and family to pitch in.

  3. Spread the message

    Post on social media, have a webinar, share articles, or simply talk about it! The idea is to spread awareness regarding childhood cancer.

5 Facts You Need To Know About Childhood Cancer

  1. Children diagnosed with cancer

    43 children are diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. every day.

  2. Worldwide cancer rate

    About 400,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed each year

  3. Genetic diseases

    Almost 10% of children with cancer inherited a genetic mutation.

  4. Cancer survivors in the U.S

    There are 483,000 childhood cancer survivors.

  5. A rare cancer

    It is known as neuroblastoma and almost always affects children.

Why Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is Important

  1. It raises awareness

    The month is essential since many parents do not even know the types of cancers that can be found in children until it’s too late.

  2. It helps raise funds

    The month is crucial to collect funds for children who cannot afford treatment. These funds are also utilized for research.

  3. It gives hope

    The month also highlights the number of children who managed to survive after treatment. Hence, it provides hope to many.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month dates

Year Date Day
2027 September 1 Wednesday
2028 September 1 Friday
2029 September 1 Saturday
2030 September 1 Sunday
2031 September 1 Monday