YWCA Princeton’s Breast Cancer Resource Center kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month

To commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the YWCA Princeton’s Breast Cancer Resource Center has placed pink bows throughout downtown Princeton to raise awareness about breast cancer and show support for local survivors.

Local businesses are also being invited to encourage their customers to “round up” at the register when they make purchases, with the funds being donated to the Breast Cancer Resource Center at the end of the month.  

The YWCA Princeton’s Breast Cancer Resource Center provides year-round support and resources for women living with and beyond breast cancer. Outreach staff and volunteers connect with an average of 6,000 women per year to promote the importance of breast self-exams, early detection, and understanding the risk factors for breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Resource Center also provides free and low-cost programs, including a healthy living cooking series, fitness courses, a wig and prosthesis boutique, peer-led support groups, and more.   

“Navigating any stage of breast cancer can be lonely,” said Melissa McMahon, director of the Breast Cancer Resource Center, “It’s crucial to make sure local women are aware of not only our programs and services but also the robust and welcoming community of women waiting to connect with them.” 

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the YWCA Princeton Breast Cancer Resource Center will host the 4th annual Beyond Pink Art Show on Oct. 21. The show features a variety of pieces created or inspired by breast cancer survivors. Paintings, sculptures, photography, and poetry are all welcomed and accepted. Participants in the Breast Cancer Resource Center’s healing arts program have produced many of the pieces that will be featured in the show. Due to COVID-19, the event will be held virtually.

“We’re eager to provide multiple ways for our community to participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” YWCA Princeton CEO Tay Walker said. “There are so many ways to make a difference that go ‘beyond the dollar.’ Our goal is to raise awareness of our programs, disparities in accessing life-saving screening and treatment, and amplify the stories of the incredible women we support here at the BCRC.”