Freedom Credit Union is making it easy to support breast cancer patients and survivors this October by accepting cash donations at all its branches for Rays of Hope, a Baystate Health Foundation charity.
“We’re always looking for ways to give back to the community,” said Glenn Welch, President of Freedom Credit Union. “Breast cancer has touched so many lives, and we’re honored to help in any way we can.”
Massachusetts has one of the highest breast cancer incidence rates in the U.S., at 140.3 cases per 100,000 women (as of 2021), compared to the national average of 134 per 100,000. This makes Massachusetts 13th highest among U.S. states for breast cancer incidence, according to figures from the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition.
Rays of Hope has made a significant impact on breast cancer care and research in the region. Over the years, it has raised over $17.2 million, all of which has stayed local to support a range of initiatives.
This funding has helped the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research advance cutting-edge studies, while also providing crucial resources for state-of-the-art equipment, breast health programs, outreach efforts, and patient education.
The organization also funds complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, yoga, and massage, to help patients through their cancer treatment. In addition, Rays of Hope distributes grants to community organizations throughout the region to further breast cancer awareness and support initiatives.
The annual Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure is the centerpiece event, bringing together thousands of participants. It has grown from 500 participants in its first year to over 20,000 participants today, making it one of the largest fundraising events for breast cancer in the area
Donations can be made at any Freedom branch until Thursday, October 31.
The 2024 edition of the Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer takes place on Sunday, October 27, starting at 8 a.m. at Temple Beth El, 979 Dickinson Street in Springfield.
