The Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a highly effective force in ensuring that all people in the state, particularly the underserved, can access quality services in breast cancer prevention, early detection, treatment and public education.
The affiliate also conducts advocacy to promote its goal of 100 percent access to quality screening and clinical care for all residents of the Commonwealth.
The organization raises significant funds through major events such as the annual Komen Massachusetts Race for the Cure. Its grants invest the proceeds back into the community, and funding decisions are guided by periodic needs assessments to ensure that grants target gaps in coverage.
During 2009 alone, the affiliate granted more than $1.1 million to local breast health organizations. Mass General was among these grantees, for a breast cancer screening and patient navigator program tailored to refugees and immigrants, including Somali, Bosnian, Afghani and African women over age 40. Based at the MGH Chelsea HealthCare Center, this culturally tailored program will decrease health disparities within a particularly vulnerable population.
