Valley Children’s Hospital announced Tuesday it has been awarded a $70,000 community grant from the Taco Bell Foundation, earmarked to support The Fresno Truck Center Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program.

The grant will fund the expansion of educational and wellness resources for survivors of pediatric cancer throughout the Valley, empowering them to continue to thrive after treatment.

“This grant allows us to reach more young survivors with the tools and guidance they need to build a healthy, successful future,” said Dr. John Gates, Valley Children’s pediatric hematologist/oncologist and director of The Fresno Truck Center Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program. “We’re grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation and our local franchise partners for believing in our mission and investing in the potential of our youth.”

The Taco Bell Foundation awarded $28 million total in community grants this year. Valley Children’s joins nearly 500 other nonprofits nominated for the grants nationwide; Valley Children’s was nominated by local Taco Bell franchises for the 2025 award.

Taco Bell has partnered with Valley Children’s for more than 32 years.

“We believe that empowering young people is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future,” said Lisa Lane Cardin, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “This record investment is a testament to the power of community-driven change and the limitless potential that exists when we remove barriers and open doors.”

The Fresno Truck Center Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program was established in 2009 and is the only organization in the Valley to provide long-term, comprehensive follow-up care to more than 1,800 childhood cancer survivors.

The program is named for supporting company Fresno Truck Center, a local, multigenerational business owned by the Howard family.

The program advances care with a holistic approach, including personalized health education, mental health and wellness resources and peer-led learning opportunities, as well as the opportunity for financial assistance through scholarships.

Earlier this year the program helped 72 childhood cancer survivors receive scholarships.

Visit the Valley Children’s website to learn more.