LEE COUNTY, Fla. -- Susan G. Komen Southwest Florida announced Tuesday that they are closing their local office and transitioning support for the region to Komen’s national mission and fundraising programs effective later this summer.
Spokeswoman Sarah Owen said that local affiliate offices sign an agreement with Komen National to raise a minimum dollar amount.
"That spells out certain criteria, such as a fundraising goal of $750,000, and the local affiliate fell short of that goal," Owen said.
The organization's commitment to the people of Southwest Florida remains strong, however. People living in the region may now access treatment assistance, clinical trial navigation, education and other patient support programs through Komen’s national Help Line at 1-877-GO-KOMEN or through komen.org.
Funds raised locally by Komen Southwest Florida, including those from the recent Race for the Cure and Rally for the Cure fundraising events, will continue to go to support breast cancer research and breast health programs at area clinics and hospitals as intended.
Breast cancer support groups in the area, such as those organized through LeeHealth and Naples Community Hospital, will not be affected by the closure of Susan G. Komen Southwest Florida.
