For many children, beating cancer is only the first step to getting well. To help provide for cancer survivors after treatment ends, the Taco Bell Foundation donated $70,000 to Valley Children’s Healthcare.

The donation, announced Tuesday by the hospital, will go to expand resources at The Fresno Truck Center Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program.

The program provides comprehensive, holistic approaches for good health after cancer 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.”

72 Cancer Survivors Get Scholarships

The donation is part of a $28 million effort from the foundation to 500 nonprofits around the nation. Local franchises nominated Valley Children’s for the grant.

“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.”

Since 2009, the survivorship program has provided care to more than 1,800 people. This year, 72 cancer survivors received scholarships.