Today, Assemblymember Harry Bronson was joined by members of the Greater Rochester Majority Delegation at a press conference with the Breast Cancer Coalition (the Coalition) to announce a continued investment in their community outreach and engagement work.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Western NY continues to have one of the highest rates of breast cancer in the country. In the United States, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with an estimated 310,720 Americans diagnosed in 2024.1

“The Breast Cancer Coalition is a critical resource in our community for those diagnosed with breast and gynecological cancers and their families. Their outreach continues to grow year after year, because their programs and services have made such an impact,” said Assemblymember Harry Bronson. “Survivorship begins with diagnosis and the Breast Cancer Coalition is a welcoming partner on a very difficult journey - providing support, education, empowerment and understanding that can only be felt by others living in the aftermath of a diagnosis. I am proud to be a fierce supporter that helps to fund their incredible work.”

“The Breast Cancer Coalition is deeply appreciative of Assemblymember Bronson and his unwavering commitment to prioritizing the needs of individuals living with a breast or gynecologic cancer diagnosis in our region. Assemblymember Bronson’s efforts in securing

$150,000 in funding from the New York State Department of Health – which we have received yearly since 2014 – is vital to ensure that the Coalition can provide free services and support to breast and gynecologic cancer survivors in 27 counties in Western and Central New York. This is reflected in the over 6,700 survivors that we served through virtual and in-person programming in 2023 alone. Thank you, Assemblymember Bronson, for your dedication to our mission – it has and will continue to have an incredible impact on our survivor community.” said Christina Thompson, Executive Director.

The Coalition was formally established in 1997 by survivor Sylvia Cappellino and seven other advocates with the mission to provide advocacy and free support programs, a mission that continues today. The Coalition serves 27 counties in Western and Central New York, grounded in four pillars: advocacy, education, support and research.

The advocacy arm of the Coalition has been instrumental in supporting legislation that addresses environmental concerns associated with increased cancer risk, like the Beauty Justice Act.

Since 2003, the Coalition has awarded $1,126,125 to researchers in Upstate and Western New York. The grants are awarded with the potential to yield significant medical breakthroughs in the cause and prevention of breast cancer, prevention of metastasis, and cure.

With this investment from New York State, the Coalition will continue to offer programming, and provide outreach and resources to the region. Including fighting for NYS to pass the “Beauty Justice Act” (A6969B/S4265B), legislation that would regulate ingredients in personal care products and cosmetics to protect consumers against toxic chemicals linked to increased cancer rates.

Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “The Breast Cancer Coalition is at the forefront of informing and supporting survivors of breast cancer in our community. With peer-led programs, BCCR offers competent, compassionate care to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. We know early intervention matters– by supporting the BCCR, we are helping survivors navigate harrowing experiences by connecting them to mutual support, wellness, and empowerment.”

Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “The Breast Cancer Coalition is leading the way on education, support, and advocacy for those impacted by breast and gynecologic cancer. I’m proud to help announce this funding alongside Assemblymember Bronson and our state delegation during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and continue our commitment towards eradicating these diseases once and for all.”

Assemblymember Jen Lunsford said, "A cancer diagnosis can be emotional, scary, and isolating. The Breast Cancer Coalition is a beacon of light for those who need hope. Not only do they offer invaluable services, they also provide community so that survivors and their loved ones have every tool at their disposal to feel empowered and not alone. I am deeply proud to have supported this funding so that BCCR can continue to do the fantastic work they do every day to improve the lives of those they serve."

Assemblywoman Sarah Clark said, “The Breast Cancer Coalition is a vital resource for our community. After receiving a breast or gynecological cancer diagnosis, knowing that there is a friendly, compassionate, and knowledgeable support system in place helps ease some of the stress and anxiety. This funding will help ensure they can continue to serve and educate throughout our region.”

Assemblyman Demond Meeks said, “Cancer is a horrific, life altering disease. A pillar of our community, the Breast Cancer Coalition, continues to provide critical services for individuals and their families. Their wrap-around services provide meaningful, lasting support to those in need. I am honored to stand alongside my state colleagues as we continue advocating for the funding and resources that the members of our community depend on.”

¹ https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/breast.html