Dunkin’ Grant Boosts Emory Proton Therapy Center Patient Housing
The Emory Proton Therapy Center in Atlanta recently received a significant boost for its pediatric patients and their families. The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation presented a $10,000 grant, part of a larger $6.5 million national commitment to children’s health and hunger organizations. This local funding is set to make a tangible difference for families seeking critical care right here in our community.
Expanding Family Support for Pediatric Patients
On November 12, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation officially awarded the $10,000 grant to the Emory Proton Therapy Center. This crucial funding is specifically earmarked to expand the center’s existing apartment assistance fund. The goal is to alleviate the financial and emotional strain on families who travel long distances to ensure their children receive life-saving treatment in Atlanta.
Why This Grant Matters in Atlanta
The Emory Proton Therapy Center provides specialized care to approximately 120 children annually. A significant portion of these families – more than 20 percent – must travel from outside the immediate Atlanta area to access this advanced treatment. Staying close to a child undergoing intensive therapy often means incurring substantial costs for housing, food, and other necessities, which can add immense stress during an already challenging time.
According to Dunkin’ officials, this $10,000 grant is projected to house about 10 families, offering a stable and supportive environment while their children receive care. Additionally, it will provide targeted support for over 50 patients, ensuring they can remain near their loved ones throughout their treatment journey.
Emilly Bartels, Dunkin’ Field Marketing Manager, emphasized the foundation’s mission: “Experiences like surgery, illness, or hospitalization can take away the everyday joys of simply being a child. With the support of our franchisees, partners and guests, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation can provide grants to hospitals like Emory that bring comfort, normalcy, and joy to kids and families when they need it most.”
How the Joy in Childhood Foundation Makes a Difference
The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation’s efforts are fueled by a broad base of support. Contributions come from dedicated Dunkin’ franchisees, brand employees, vendor partners, and generous guests across the country. Key fundraising initiatives include annual events like Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day and the Foundation’s “Give Joy” fundraiser.
Since its inception in 2006, the foundation has granted over $60 million to hundreds of national and local charities, consistently focusing on creating joyful environments and experiences for children battling hunger or illness.
Funding Snapshot: Local Impact vs. National Commitment
| Funding Category | Amount | Purpose / Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Grant to Emory Proton Therapy Center | $10,000 | Expand housing fund for pediatric patients and families in Atlanta. |
| Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation National Commitment (2025) | $6.5 Million | Support children’s health and hunger organizations across the U.S. |
| Total Granted Since 2006 (Foundation-wide) | Over $60 Million | Provide joyful environments and experiences for kids battling hunger or illness. |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Grant
- What is the purpose of this $10,000 grant?
The grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation is specifically intended to expand the Emory Proton Therapy Center’s apartment assistance fund, helping families who travel to Atlanta for their children’s treatment with housing and essential support. - How many families and patients will this grant help?
Company officials estimate the grant will help house approximately 10 families and provide targeted supports for more than 50 pediatric patients, ensuring they can stay close to their loved ones during treatment. - How does the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation raise its funds?
Funding for the foundation comes from the generosity of Dunkin’ franchisees, brand employees, vendor partners, and guests through local and national efforts, including Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day and the annual “Give Joy” fundraiser. - Why is housing assistance needed for pediatric cancer patients?
Many families must travel significant distances to access specialized treatments like proton therapy. The cost of extended stays in an unfamiliar city can add immense financial and emotional burdens, making housing assistance vital for continuity of care and family support.
This grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation represents a compassionate investment in the well-being of Atlanta’s most vulnerable patients, ensuring that families can focus on healing without the added stress of finding a place to stay.
Dunkin Grant Funds Emory Pediatric Housing
