Keep A Breast Foundation's Give Back Grant Program Empowers BIPOC Women Affected by Breast Cancer

The Keep A Breast Foundation has once again opened its Give Back Grant (GBG) program, dedicating $100,000 to support women of color who are battling or have survived breast cancer. This initiative, now in its fifth year, underscores the foundation's unwavering commitment to mitigating the financial and emotional burdens faced by BIPOC women in the breast cancer community. Since 2020, the GBG program has distributed over $523,500 through 1,047 grants, serving as a critical lifeline for those who face higher mortality rates and systemic barriers to care.

Shaney jo Darden, the founder of Keep A Breast, highlights the transformative potential of these grants. The unrestricted nature of the funding allows recipients to allocate the money towards their most pressing needs, whether it's covering medical expenses, personal care, or engaging in activities that foster healing and joy. This flexibility is pivotal in addressing the unique challenges that BIPOC women encounter during and after breast cancer treatment.

The success of the GBG program is bolstered by the generosity of partners like Smart & Sassy and Curvy Couture, alongside contributions from individual donors. Marquita Goodluck, the GBG program manager and a breast cancer survivor herself, speaks to the profound impact of the program. It not only provides financial relief but also affirms the dignity and resilience of BIPOC women, offering them a sense of community and belonging during a profoundly challenging time.

Applications for the current grant cycle are open until December 31, 2024, offering $500 grants to eligible women of color in the U.S. who are navigating the aftermath of a breast cancer diagnosis. As the Keep A Breast Foundation approaches its 25th anniversary, the GBG program exemplifies its dedication to fostering health equity and empowering underserved communities through targeted support and advocacy.

The broader implications of the GBG program are significant, challenging the status quo of breast cancer care and support. By focusing on the specific needs of BIPOC women, the Keep A Breast Foundation is not only alleviating immediate financial strains but also contributing to a larger movement towards health equity. The program's emphasis on community engagement and personalized support serves as a model for how charitable organizations can make a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.