South Bay Nonprofit Provides Free Resources for Those With Cancer

In California, more than 176,140 people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer this year, and it is estimated that 1 out of every 2 Californians born today will develop cancer at some point in their life, according to the California Cancer Registry.

For many of those people, the psychological and emotional impact of their diagnosis is largely ignored.

That’s where Cancer CAREpoint steps in.

Founded in 2010 by local community and healthcare leaders, Cancer CAREpoint was created in response to personal cancer experiences that revealed a critical gap in psychosocial and practical support for patients, survivors, and families. While the Bay Area is home to world-class medical facilities, many patients lack access to essential supportive services that address emotional and practical challenges.

Since opening the Cancer CAREpoint Resource Center in San Jose in 2012, the organization has served over 12,000 individuals and provided more than 108,000 hours of service. The non-profit provides emergency funding support, professional counseling, support groups, nutrition education, wig fittings, and health and wellness classes.

One of the most popular programs is the Wig Bank, which offers free, high quality wigs to anyone who has lost their hair due to cancer treatments. The organization is the only one in the Bay Area consistently providing new wigs for cancer patients at no charge.

“People who visit our wig bank are in all different stages of their cancer journey,” said Morrigan Bruce, COO of Cancer CAREpoint. “Some need a wig to be able to continue in their jobs, some just want a sense of normalcy; to not be reminded of their diagnosis every time they look in the mirror. Each appointment is a personalized experience designed to make the client feel safe, valued and comfortable.”

Cancer CAREpoint also distributes free CARE Kits which include resources to help patients navigate medical appointments, as well as comfort and support items such as hats and port pillows which are made and donated by members of the community.

The support groups are another important part of the non-profit’s services, offering a much
needed outlet for patients, survivors, caregivers and family members.

“There is a severe lack of attention to mental health when it comes to cancer, ” said Bruce. “Many of our clients express that after their diagnosis, or their loved ones' diagnosis, that they experience fear, isolation, and depression that they don’t necessarily share with their medical providers.”

Cancer CAREpoint receives no federal or state funding, and relies primarily on grants and donations in order to keep its doors open.

The non-profit, which is based in San Jose, currently serves people from regions across the Bay Area. To inquire about care and services, visit www.cancercarepoint.org

About Cancer CAREpoint:
Cancer CAREpoint is dedicated to transforming support for cancer patients, survivors, family members, and caregivers in the Bay Area and beyond through personalized, one-on-one counseling, assistance, resources, and education. To learn more, visit https://www.cancercarepoint.org/