CFF grants go to 4 programs supporting CF community
Podcast, fitness program, art club, nutrition venture receive funding
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) grants will help fund four programs that support the well-being of people with cystic fibrosis (CF).
The awards, given through the foundation’s ninth annual Impact Grants program, provide up to $10,000 to individuals and nonprofit organizations in the CF community. Since the program started in 2016, the CF Foundation has awarded more than $1 million.
“Providing all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives is core to our mission,” Sue Sullivan, vice president and head of community partnerships at the CF Foundation, said in a press release. “Impact Grants allow us to work alongside the CF community to be responsive to their needs.”
One program receiving funding is the Fight2Breathe podcast. Hosted by Caleigh Haber, an adult with CF, it will provide a platform for sharing personal stories, expert advice, and the latest developments in CF care. Listeners can expect discussions on various topics, including breakthroughs in CF research, mental health, relationships, and navigating healthcare systems.
Another grant recipient, Fit for CF, provides virtual Taekwondo fitness for children with CF, ages 4-15. Led by Neha Purohit, a CF Foundation volunteer and third-degree taekwondo black belt, the eight-week course will allow kids to practice age-appropriate exercises and develop healthy habits to support physical, mental, and social development.
Navigating life with CF
The 65 Roses Art Club, hosted by Stephanie Carlstrom, another adult with CF, will provide virtual classes for CF children and adults to explore various creative projects and develop new creative skills. The classes are designed to help with stress management, socialization, and connection.
Practical Skills for Healthy Eating for Children With CF and Their Families also received funding. The program, a virtual cooking series for families of people with CF, is produced by the integrative health team at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The classes will feature recipes that meet the dietary needs of CF patients, regardless of budget or schedule.
“No matter how long one has been managing their cystic fibrosis or caring for someone with the disease, the experience can be challenging,” Sullivan said. “The 2024 Impact Grant recipients are continuing to raise the bar by developing creative projects to help navigate life with CF through opportunities to connect and learn new skills.”
Several 2023 Impact Grant recipients have been awarded renewals for their programs, including BreatheStrong+, Spit It Out, CF Community Footprints, CF Senior Saturday Meet & Greet, The Salty Pen, and CF Wellbeing Collective.
Grant recipients are selected in consultation with the  CF Adult Advisory Council, an outside group of CF adults.  Applications for the 2025 Impact Grants will open in early 2025.
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