UDWI REMC’s Community Fund, Inc. Grant Supports Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services in Delivering Critical Care to Local Patients
Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services is making a meaningful impact in the lives of local residents by helping ensure access to lifesaving cancer care. As a recent recipient of a UDWI REMC Community Fund grant totaling $500, Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services will continue to empower those facing a cancer diagnosis so that they have the resources to seek second opinions and specialized treatment options at leading medical centers.
Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services originated following a generous donation from an anonymous donor who, upon her passing, left funds specifically designated to assist cancer patients within the community. Initially, a group of volunteers serving on the board of the Lawrence County chapter of the American Cancer Society (ACS) was asked to administer these funds independently to benefit local individuals. After the Lawrence County chapter of ACS was disbanded, the former board members founded an independent nonprofit organization, continuing their mission of giving resources to local cancer patients in southern Indiana.
Ultimately, the Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services expanded its efforts through active fundraising, increasing volunteer involvement, and building community partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and individual donors. In addition, the organization focuses on expanding patients’ access to specialized care and providing hands-on support that helps patients safely navigate daily life during treatment.
“With the current barriers for treatment options, some patients can’t even afford to get treatment,” said Teena Ligman, Patient Coordinator for Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services. “We step in to remove those barriers and support them however we can. From transportation to basic needs, we do whatever it takes to help patients stay on track with their treatment and recovery.”
Essential medical equipment provided by Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services includes shower chairs, rollator walkers, grab bars, and wheelchairs— all of which improve patient safety and independence. The organization also uses partnerships, such as that with the Bedford Lions Club, to help install ramps in homes and offer transportation assistance (gas cards, volunteer drivers, professional transport services, support for parking costs, etc.).
With the $500 grant from the UDWI REMC Community Fund, essential medical equipment, along with other resources will be provided to patients.
“We want to thank all UDWI members for their generosity in participating in the RoundUp Program,” said Ligman. “Contributions like this not only ease the financial burden many patients face but also allow us to offer hope and ensure no one in the community has to navigate their cancer journey alone.”
Those interested in getting involved with Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services are encouraged to reach out to the organization directly to learn more about volunteer opportunities. New volunteers will participate in a welcome meeting where they meet organizational leaders who connect them to specific opportunities based on individuals’ interests.
Community members can also support the organization by attending upcoming events, including the Spring Tea Party on April 25, the annual Celebrate Life Luncheon for local cancer survivors in September, and the Annual Auto Show on September 5.
To make an impact in your local community and donate to nonprofit organizations like Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services, UDWI REMC members can participate in the RoundUp Program, which allows cooperative members to round up to the nearest whole dollar on their electric bills. The money accumulated is then awarded to various nonprofit organizations— determined by the UDWI REMC Community Fund Board (separate from UDWI REMC staff and Board of Directors).
The latest round of UDWI REMC Community Fund grant recipients for the quarter are: Autism Rocks and Rolls Corporation; Camp Invention (Lincoln Elementary); Community Kitchen; God’s Hands In Action; Healthy Hearts WRV; Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services; Linton-Stockton School Corporation; Open Arms Christian Ministries, Inc.; Scotland Community Church Missions Fund (Food Pantry); South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP); and St. Vincent de Paul Society (Bloomington).
The UDWI REMC Community Fund, Inc. is now accepting applications for its next grant cycle. All nonprofit businesses in UDWI REMC’s service area are encouraged to apply. Please visit www.udwiremc.com to learn more about the program and to start an application.