In 1979, a small group of parents who had children diagnosed with cancer saw a need for families to meet other families experiencing the same issues. They began meeting on a monthly basis and after several months they formed an independent chapter of Candlelighters, establishing non-profit status in 1981.

Candlelighters is now known as Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California, Inc. (CCFSC)

Today, CCFSC is more than 800 families strong committed to serving children with cancer and their families throughout Southern California emotionally, socially, educationally and with emergency assistance. CCFSC works directly with the families to identify their need for support. We are committed to providing support services to families so that they feel less isolated, frustrated and fearful in dealing with the problems that cancer can manifest within the family structure. 

Support begins at the moment of diagnosis and remains available through every stage of treatment and beyond. 

CCFSC has been a very active organization in Southern California since September 1979, providing services to over 2,000 patients and their families.