Cancer Can’t, a Spokane-based nonprofit that supports adult cancer patients and their families in the Inland Northwest, has reached its $6 million fundraising goal and expects to break ground on its new oncology lodging project in April, says co-founder and board president Becky Van Keulen.

The planned 20-unit lodging facility for adult cancer patients who need to travel to Spokane for oncology treatment will be located at 1404 W. Mallon in Spokane's West Central neighborhood.  

Once construction begins, the project is expected to take 10 to 12 months to complete, potentially opening by March 2027, Van Keulen says.

Spokane-based Bouten Construction Co. is the contractor, and SOK Design Studio, a trade name for Spokane-based Sayler, Owens, Kerr Inc., is the architect. Axia Structural PLLC, of Spokane, is the structural engineer.

In November 2025, the nonprofit received a $750,000 donation from Spokane-based Genova Foundation that helped Cancer Can’t complete its construction fundraising goal. The Genova Foundation is a new organization formed by Mike and Sandy Genova, owners of Leisure Concepts Inc., a manufacturer of spa accessories and after-market products, Van Keulen notes.

“The Genova Foundation is our naming sponsor,” Van Keulen says. “The project is now named the Genova House.”

As planned, 20 Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant one-bedroom units will comprise four two-story buildings, all connected under one roof. Each unit will feature about 635 square feet of living space, an open kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a private balcony. Each living area is envisioned to be able to easily be converted into a second sleeping area for caregivers.

The Genova House also will include a common space for patient support groups, nutrition classes, and other community programming.

Van Keulen says the organization will fundraise an additional $1 million for finishing touches such as landscaping and extra furniture. The organization plans to hold a fundraising luncheon on April 30 at Barn & Blossom, on Spokane’s South Hill, to reach its additional $1 million goal, Van Keulen adds.

— Karina Elias