Candlelighters was formed in El Paso, Texas in 1978 by a small group of parents brought together by a common concern: their children had cancer. Encouraged by a local physician, they formed a support group to share information and experiences. At the time there were no resources available to provide information, financial assistance, or the emotional support necessary to adequately cope with this life threatening disease. In 1983, Candlelighters grew into a nonprofit 501©(3) organization affiliated with Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. In January 1985, as the need for services increased, the first Candlelighters office officially opened its doors. Volunteers from the community joined forces with the parents to assure Candlelighters’ success.

Who we are today

Our agency currently serves over 1,200 registered families with 200 families in active treatment. Some of our children are newly diagnosed. Some are in remission. Some have relapsed. Some are in active treatment. Some are long term survivors. And sadly, some are angels.