Start a Cancer Fundraiser on GoFundMe

Raise money to help cover the cost of cancer treatment, medical bills, care, and more. You’re not alone, join thousands who are fundraising for financial support in their battle against cancer.

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Everything you need to help your fundraiser succeed is here. Start fundraising on GoFundMe today

How to start Tips Examples Resources Questions Why GoFundMe

How to start a GoFundMe

Step 1

Our tools help create your fundraiser

Click the ‘Start a GoFundMe’ button to get started. You’ll be guided by prompts to add fundraiser details and set your goal, which can be changed anytime.

Step 2

Share your fundraiser link to reach donors

Once live, share your fundraiser link with friends and family to start gaining momentum. You’ll also find helpful resources for running your fundraiser in your GoFundMe dashboard.

Step 3

Securely receive the funds you raise

Add your bank information to securely start receiving funds or invite your intended recipient to add theirs. You don’t need to reach your fundraising goal to receive your money.

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Tips for your medical fundraiser on GoFundMe

More Fundraising Tips

Add details to build trust

Your fundraiser story connects you with potential donors. Provide the details you feel comfortable sharing about your (or your loved one’s) cancer journey, and what you need. Detailing your need helps donors feel confident in giving, and we recommend you include estimated costs or details of what you’re raising money for. IE to help cover meal service or bills that insurance doesn’t cover.

Lean on friends and family first

Before you share your fundraiser broadly with your social media networks, consider first asking a few of your closest friends or family members to help you get started by making a donation and adding words of encouragement. You can even add them as a team member to help you manage the fundraiser.

Consistency is key

Most people don’t reach their fundraising goal with just one social media post, so don’t get discouraged. Make time throughout the week to post on a different social network, send an email, write a letter, or ask a friend or family member in person to support by donating to or sharing your fundraiser. You can even easily post updates with photos within your GoFundMe dashboard.

Examples of cancer fundraisers on GoFundMe

Treatment costs Fighting cancer

Support for Michael

Beloved husband, dad, and friend is fighting cancer. A friend of the family started a GoFundMe to help with expenses while Michael receives treatment.

$0 raised of $0 goal

Help for Tiffany

Friends, family, and coworkers have rallied to support Tiffany in her continued battle.

$0 raised of $0 goal

Resources for cancer fundraising

View more

GoFundMe's top fundraising tips Top fundraising ideas for cancer care 20 Fundraiser Sharing Tips to Increase Donations

Questions about cancer fundraising on GoFundMe

More FAQs

Can I start a GoFundMe for myself?

Yes, starting a GoFundMe to get help covering the cost of your treatment, added expenses amidst remission, or anything else you need. Including details in your GoFundMe’s description about what you are fundraising for will help donors understand what you need.

Can I start a fundraiser for my friend or loved one?

Yes, if you know a friend or loved one who needs help covering medical bills, starting a GoFundMe is a great way to help. We recommend you first ask if the person you are fundraising for is comfortable with you starting the fundraiser. Once you set up the fundraiser, you can invite them to set up bank transfers so they will receive the money directly. Learn more about inviting the person you are fundraising for to receive funds. 

What details should I include in my cancer fundraiser?

Including the details, even estimates, of what you are fundraising for and the average costs, can help potential donors understand your need. For example, if you are raising money to help cover the cost of treatment and to support the family while out of work, you might share how much you anticipate each of those costs to be. For more inspiration, read this article for help writing your fundraiser description.

Can I raise my goal if I my needs increase?

Yes, you can raise (or lower) your fundraising goal at any time. 

How long will it take to receive the money raised?

The process of setting up and verifying transfers can take 3-7 business days or longer to complete. Then, once your first transfer is sent, it will take on average 2-5 business days for the funds to safely be deposited into the bank account on file.

How much of the money will I keep?

One small transaction fee (2.9% + $0.30) is automatically deducted per donation—that’s it. Everything else goes directly to your cause. For more information and to estimate what you will receive, check out the GoFundMe pricing calculator.

Can I raise money for a cancer charity on GoFundMe?

Yes, you can fundraise for a cancer charity or nonprofit you care about by selecting “Charity” when prompted to select who you are fundraising for in your GoFundMe setup.

Why set up a cancer fundraiser on GoFundMe?

Starting a cancer fundraiser on GoFundMe can be a lifeline for those facing the overwhelming challenge of medical expenses, day-to-day essentials, and accommodations while fighting cancer. GoFundMe provides a compassionate platform to share your story and gather financial support from your community. By creating a cancer fundraiser, you’re providing an easy and trusted way for those who want to help you to join your journey. GoFundMe’s tools make it simple to reach out to friends, family, and even strangers who want to support when people need it most.

Start a GoFundMe