Save the date! RAchel's Royal Tea Party for Girls and Boys

To provide emotional, educational, practical and financial support to families of children fighting cancer. We provide a light in the darkness, because no family should face the uncertain world of childhood cancer alone. 

We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, supported by the private donations of foundations, corporations, small businesses, individuals and our activities.  Visit us here to learn how you can help. 

Our newsletters are published four times a year! Please enjoy the PDF versions by visiting us here. 

We are proud to offer this QR code; simply 1) open your phone's camera, 2) scan QR code, 3) make a contribution.  Please share these simple steps with others! Thank you! 

DC Candlelighters is a local affiliate of the American Childhood Cancer Organization. The ACCO has more than 50,000 members and 40 affiliate groups across the county.  DC Candlelighters began in 1970 by 25 parents who met in the halls of Children’s National Medical Center to offer each other support during their child’s cancer treatment. 

Throughout the year, we host events for children on/off treatment. We welcome their siblings and parents as well. Stay tuned for upcoming events by clicking here.  Visit us here to relive the magic of our past socials, activities and events.

Our all-volunteer Board of Directors consists of parents experienced with childhood cancer.  Our children are warriors, survivors and angels. The Board works in collaboration with other pediatric non-profits and clinical professionals to best serve the needs of those in our care. Meet the current Board members here.

"When you stand in the middle of sadness and sorrow, with only one candle lit, it is hard to see the light, and the candle easily goes out. But with many candles lit, standing together, one cannot help but see the light and feel the warmth of love. It is because of the brightness and hope of our shared light, that we call ourselves Candlelighters." -  from The American Childhood Cancer Organization

“Our family sends our sincere appreciation for your financial assistance. My husband and I both lost a month of work when our son was diagnosed.” - The Bub Family

“I can’t imagine getting through this year without your help and support” - The Eissenstat Family

“When we received the news of our 3-year-old daughter Madison’s diagnosis with Stage 4 cancer it felt like we’d been hit by a ton of bricks. We are still trying to climb up from under. But your monetary support and wonderful events like the

Mother-Daughter Spa Night offer much needed relief in our time of despair." -  The Garrett Family