The Emporia Sertoma Club recently made a significant contribution to the June Bug Cancer Foundation, donating a $2,000 grant at the Central Care Cancer Center.
This gesture highlights the ongoing commitment of the Sertoma Club to support local initiatives that benefit the community.
The Emporia Sertoma Club Grant
The $2,000 grant was secured by the Emporia Sertoma Club through Sertoma International, a program designed to empower local clubs with funding to assist their communities.
This is the second consecutive year the club has received such a grant, with last year’s funds used for various local projects, including providing toiletries, food, and mittens for those in need.
Vicki Brooks, President of the Emporia Sertoma Club, expressed her excitement about receiving the grant again this year. “When I got the email, I was so excited, I had to tell everybody in our club,” she said.
The decision to donate this year’s grant to the June Bug Cancer Foundation was driven by the foundation’s significant impact on patients battling cancer.
About the June Bug Cancer Foundation
The June Bug Cancer Foundation was established in 2007 to honor June Monnard Sauder, affectionately known as “June Bug.”
The foundation aims to ease the financial burdens faced by cancer patients, such as transportation, lodging, utility bills, and other essential needs. The nonprofit operates locally, ensuring that all funds are used to support the Emporia community.
According to Justin Branine, Radiation Oncology Director at Central Care Cancer Center, the foundation has provided over $35,000 in assistance to local patients. “Because 100% of what we get goes back into the community, to the patients,” Branine emphasized.
The foundation’s work has also inspired similar initiatives at other Central Care Cancer Center locations across Kansas and Missouri.
Impact on the Emporia Community
The donation from the Emporia Sertoma Club will enhance the foundation’s ability to support cancer patients. The grant will be used for essential expenses, including travel costs, hotel stays, and even utility bills for patients undergoing treatment.
This support is particularly impactful for those receiving radiation to the head or neck, as the treatment can sometimes affect hearing, necessitating visits to an audiologist.
Branine highlighted the broader impact of the foundation’s work: “There’s a trickle-down effect of everything the foundation does into the community. Supporting local businesses helps support local patients.”
| Organization/Initiative | Year Established | Purpose | Amount Donated/Supported | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emporia Sertoma Club Grant | 2023 | Funding for local cancer support | $2,000 | Covers patient expenses |
| June Bug Cancer Foundation | 2007 | Financial aid for cancer patients | Over $35,000 | Assists with bills, lodging, travel |
| Sertoma International Program | Ongoing | Community grants | $500-$2,000 | Empowers local clubs to assist others |
| Central Care Cancer Center | Multiple locations | Cancer treatment and community support | N/A | Broad regional impact |
The June Bug Cancer Foundation and its partnership with organizations like the Emporia Sertoma Club demonstrate the power of community-driven initiatives to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
The Emporia Sertoma Club’s $2,000 grant to the June Bug Cancer Foundation exemplifies how community organizations can collaborate to create meaningful change.
With every dollar going directly to patient support, this partnership underscores the importance of local initiatives in providing relief and hope to those facing significant challenges.
The efforts of the June Bug Cancer Foundation continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of cancer patients and the broader Emporia community.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the June Bug Cancer Foundation?
The June Bug Cancer Foundation provides financial assistance to cancer patients for transportation, lodging, utility bills, and other essential needs during treatment.
How does the Emporia Sertoma Club contribute to the community?
The Emporia Sertoma Club secures grants from Sertoma International and uses them to support local initiatives, including cancer support, food donations, and community projects.
How are funds from the June Bug Cancer Foundation used?
All funds are dedicated to helping local cancer patients in Emporia, covering expenses such as travel, hotel stays, and utility bills.
