The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation is a publicly-funded non-profit organization headquartered in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. The mission of the MSF is to provide programs and support services to those persons affected by MS that help them maintain health, safety, self-sufficiency, and personal well-being; and to heighten public awareness of multiple sclerosis in order to elicit financial support for the MSF’s programs and services and promote understanding for those diagnosed with the illness.
The MSF’s programs and services include the following:
Telephone Helpline Resources, Homecare Assistance Grant Program, Assistive Technology and Equipment Program, Cooling Program, Computer Grant Program, Brighter Tomorrow Grant Program, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, MSF Independent Support Group Program, MSF Lending Library, MSF Publications, MSF Website and Internet Forums, and Services for Healthcare Workers.
Support for the MSF comes from grants, fundraisers, charitable bequests and pledges, and provide programs and services designed to improve the quality of life for people with MS. All MSF programs and services are provided free of charge.
Public education and awareness is achieved year-round through national and regional programs presented by doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals who specialize in MS.
National MS Education and Awareness Month® is recognized every year in March by the MSF and affiliated groups. The campaign’s goals are to promote an understanding of the scope of the disease, and to assist people with MS in making educated decisions about their healthcare.
The MSF Cruise for a Cause ® is offered by the MSF each year as an innovative, educational program at sea. Lectures by renowned MS specialists, workshops by healthcare professionals, discussion groups, question and answer sessions, social gatherings and shore excursions offer many opportunities for learning and fun.