Standing with Curaçao since 1949.

For more than 75 years, Stichting Prinses Wilhelmina Fonds has supported people and families affected by cancer with care, guidance, practical assistance, education, and hope.

Our story

A foundation born from a gift to the community.

On November 16, 1949, Stichting Prinses Wilhelmina Fonds was officially founded in Curaçao under the leadership of chairwoman Mrs. G.M. Pieters-Witkam. Established to contribute to the fight against cancer in the broadest sense, PWF grew from a wider initiative inspired by Queen Wilhelmina.

To mark Queen Wilhelmina's 50th year on the throne, people across the islands had raised funds for a gift. She returned the money with the mission that it be used to establish foundations supporting cancer patients with limited financial means.

Since then, PWF has continued to evolve alongside the needs of Curaçao's community. Today, our primary focus is guiding and supporting people affected by cancer and their immediate families. Our social workers, care professionals, staff, and trained volunteers work together to provide emotional, social, and practical support throughout the cancer journey.

Five members of the Prinses Wilhelmina Fonds team in branded polo shirts, smiling and posing together in front of a backdrop of coloured lights

Our mission

Stichting Prinses Wilhelmina Fonds is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to cancer patients and their families in Curaçao. Our mission is to offer guidance, hope, and resources to those affected by cancer and their loved ones in the broadest sense of the word so that no one has to face it alone.

Our vision

We envision a future where cancer awareness and support are accessible to everyone in our community. For over 75 years, we have been a beacon of hope, and we continue to strive for a world where no one faces cancer alone.

What we focus on

How we support the community.

  • Guidance and psychosocial support
  • Practical assistance during treatment and recovery
  • Programs for children, young people, and families
  • Awareness, education, and prevention initiatives
  • Community partnerships
The official Prinses Wilhelmina Fonds logo: a red crab beside the foundation name, above a red KANKERBESTRIJDING banner

Our logo

A symbol with a long history.

The word cancer is connected to the Greek word karkinos, meaning crab. This is why the crab has long been used as a symbol of cancer. In PWF's original logo, a sword pierced the crab to represent the fight against the disease.

In 2023, PWF modernized its logo while preserving the meaning behind this important symbol and our continued commitment to the community.