About Tough As Nails Children's Cancer Foundation
Building hope — one city, one family, one child at a time — since 2022.
Our Story
Tough As Nails Children's Cancer Foundation was founded in 2022 by Deja Hicks with a singular mission: to provide financial support and resources to low-income families who are battling childhood cancer. The name says it all — these children are tough as nails, and they deserve every resource available to fight and win.
We believe that no family should have to face the devastating financial burden of childhood cancer alone. From medical co-pays and hospital bills to rent, utilities, and groceries, we step in to help families focus on what matters most — their child's recovery and survival.
Since our founding, we have assisted hundreds of families, raised $140,845 in direct financial support across all chapters, and expanded to 25+ chapter cities across the nation — all in partnership with Walmart and their Spark Goods giving program.
Our Journey
From a single vision to a growing foundation — here is how TANCCF has grown since 2022.
Foundation Established
Deja Hicks founds TANCCF in Scottsdale, AZ (Major Headquarters) with a mission to support low-income families battling childhood cancer.
Walmart Spark Goods Partnership
TANCCF becomes a verified Walmart Spark Goods nonprofit partner, enabling in-store and online donations across the country.
$140,845 Raised for Families
The foundation surpasses $140,000 in total funds raised across all chapters — delivering direct financial support to hundreds of families battling childhood cancer nationwide.
25+ Chapter Cities Nationwide
TANCCF expands to 25+ chapter cities from coast to coast — from Spokane, WA to Tampa, FL — united in the fight across our nation.
Our Mission
To financially support low-income families battling childhood cancer, ensuring every child has access to the resources and care they need to fight and survive. We believe that financial hardship should never stand between a child and their chance at life.
Our Vision
A world where no family is forced to choose between paying bills and saving their child's life. We envision a future where every child battling cancer has the full support of their community behind them — and where no parent has to fight alone.
Our Core Values
Compassion
We lead with empathy and deep understanding for every family we serve. Every decision we make is guided by the question: what does this family truly need?
Integrity
We are fully transparent and accountable. 100% of every donation goes directly to families — never to overhead or administrative costs.
Community
We believe in the extraordinary power of people coming together to lift one another up. Our 200+ community partners and Walmart Spark Goods make everything possible.
Resilience
Inspired by the incredible children we serve, we never give up in the face of adversity. Their courage drives everything we do.
How We Help Families
Our process is simple, fast, and 100% focused on getting help to families who need it most.
Family Applies
Families in need reach out to TANCCF through our contact form or by calling our office. Our team responds within 48 hours.
Needs Assessment
We work directly with each family to understand their specific financial needs — from medical bills to rent, utilities, and groceries.
Direct Financial Support
100% of approved funds are paid directly to service providers — landlords, utility companies, and medical facilities — on behalf of the family.
Ongoing Support
We stay connected with families throughout their journey, providing continued assistance and connecting them with additional community resources.
Deja Hicks
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Deja Hicks founded Tough As Nails Children's Cancer Foundation in 2022 after witnessing firsthand the financial devastation that childhood cancer can bring to families. Driven by compassion and a deep commitment to justice, Deja built TANCCF from the ground up — creating a lifeline for families who need it most. Under her leadership, the foundation has raised $140,845 across all chapters in direct support, expanded to 25+ chapter cities nationwide, and built a network of 200+ community partners. Her motto: no family should ever have to fight childhood cancer alone.
"No family should have to fight childhood cancer alone."
Our Partnership with Walmart Spark Goods
We are proud to be a verified partner with Walmart through their Spark Goods giving program. Together, we create opportunity and stronger communities. This powerful partnership amplifies our ability to reach more families across all 25+ chapter cities. Walmart shoppers and associates can donate directly to TANCCF at checkout and in-store at participating locations — making every shopping trip an opportunity to change a child's life.
Join Us in the Fight
Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word — every action makes a real difference in the lives of children and families battling cancer. Together, we are tough as nails.