UH Cancer Center Receives $2.5 Million Grant

The funding supports a new initiative to expand oncology care and research training for patients across Hawaii.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Cancer

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring geometric architectural columns, evoking the systemic progress of cancer research and oncology development. — The University of Hawai'i Cancer Center will use a $2.5 million grant from the Helmsley Charitable Trust to expand oncology services and clinical training across Hawaii. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The University of Hawai'i Cancer Center has been awarded a $2.5 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. This funding will support the Ka ʻUmeke Lama initiative, which aims to improve oncology outcomes and local clinical trial access.

Why it matters

The initiative addresses significant health disparities in the state caused by fragmented care and the need for residents to travel long distances for specialized cancer treatments. By expanding local training, it seeks to reduce the financial and logistical burdens on patients.

Between 2021 and 2023, Hawaii residents spent at least $230 million on out-of-state cancer care. The new grant funds the creation of hematology and oncology fellowships to provide specialized training locally.

The players

University of Hawai'i Cancer Center

This facility is the state's primary center for cancer research and oncology services.

Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust

This philanthropic organization provides funding for medical research and healthcare infrastructure projects.

The details

The grant will establish specialized fellowship programs and a coordination system for patient referrals and trial participation statewide. The initiative specifically targets challenges like limited trial access that have historically forced many patients to seek care elsewhere.

From 2021 to 2023, residents spent $230 million on out-of-state cancer care.
In 2024, the Helmsley Charitable Trust donated $1.2 million for the Ho'ola Early Phase Clinical Research Center.
The new grant award was officially announced on October 23, 2026.

Health Landscape

This project follows a pattern set by the Ka ʻUmeke Lama initiative to address local healthcare disparities through workforce development. It reflects a broader effort to reduce reliance on mainland medical systems by building comprehensive oncology expertise within the state.

Residents can expect improved access to specialized oncology care and local clinical trials as the center expands its medical workforce. These changes aim to lower the financial burden and logistical stress previously associated with seeking cancer treatment outside the state.

The takeaway

Expanding local clinical training programs can significantly reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized cancer care. Investing in state-based oncology infrastructure helps keep critical medical resources accessible to the local community.