Hyundai Hope On Wheels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by Hyundai Motor America and its U.S. dealers, announced $11 million in new grants in continuance of its mission to end childhood cancer.
This year, the organization has awarded 25 new research grants to children’s hospitals nationwide. The grants are designated in two categories: 10 Young Investigators Grants in the amount of $200,00 each and 15 Hyundai Scholars Hope Grants in the amount of $300,000 each. Grant recipients were selected as part of a competitive, peer reviewed process open to U.S. Children’s Oncology Group member institutions. These grants will be presented to the hospitals in September.
“While much has changed in the way treatments and related care are delivered to children fighting cancer during these times, one constant remains — our resolve to find a cure for the disease,” said Scott Fink, board chair of Hyundai Hope On Wheels and president of Hyundai of New Port Richey and Wesley Chapel.
In addition to grant awards going to children’s hospitals, grant awards for this year also will support Covid-19 drive-thru testing. The HHOW announced $4.4 million in grants to children’s hospitals and other institutions to help fight against Covid-19. The novel coronavirus is a particular threat to children with pediatric cancer, who often experience compromised immune systems. The HHOW grants to 23 Covid-19 drive-thru testing centers will allow families to receive the care they need in a safe and efficient environment. To date, this effort has resulted in more than 615,000 Covid-19 tests.
The HHOW also selected new National Youth Ambassadors to represent the organization in its nationwide campaign. These ambassadors are pediatric cancer survivors who share their stories of hope with other children in the midst of their battles.
This year’s ambassadors are Alex Ferm of Chapel Hill, North Carolina and Jordyn Hernandez of Concord, California.
Nearly half of the Hyundai autos sold in the U.S. are built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama.
