Traci's Hope is accepting applications for grants to help patients in Broome and Tioga counties, said Gordon Shiner, the agency's director.

A patient who is under a doctor's care can qualify for up to $500 a year for as many as five years.

The organization, which holds regular fundraising events, has enough money on hand to fund at least 30 to 40 grants, he said.

"We know there are people who need help, and this is what we do," he said. "We want them to know we are here."

The grants are intended to help financially struggling patients meet everyday expenses, ranging from groceries to heating bills to doctors bills.

Application forms are online at the organization's Web site, www.tracishope.com. They are also available at Broome Oncology offices at Wilson Square in Johnson City.

The request for applications comes after the American Cancer Society issued a report earlier this month showing more cancer patients are facing financial hardships and out-of-pocket expenses, despite having insurance. Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among woman.

The organization is named after the late Traci Gibson, Shiner's daughter, who was a patient and advocate.