The Common Thread for the Cure Foundation, founded in 2000, supports individuals fighting breast cancer who are affiliated with the furnishings and design industries by offering financial assistance through confidential Helping Hands Grants. The grants aid breast cancer patients and their families in areas where insurance does not apply. For example, a grant can be used to meet financial obligations, household needs and transportation to medical appointments. The intent of the grants is to enhance the quality of life for those who have breast cancer enabling them to maintain as normal a lifestyle as possible while they are confronting the disease. To date, the foundation has raised over $1 million to provide grants to individuals throughout North America.