Deniliquin Can Assist is currently supporting 54 patients who have been diagnosed with cancer.
It means the number of people to receive assistance since the 2017 formation of the local group is now 189.
The increase in patients has also seen an increase in funding distributed.
And with more people reaching out for help all the time, the Deniliquin branch is encouraging people to consider donating this Christmas.
“We know there are people out there who make donations to charities in lieu of Christmas gifts, and we simply ask that those people consider donating to help us support more locals,” Deniliquin Can Assist member Susie Wallace said.
“Can Assist helps cancer patients by tailoring financial assistance to meet individual needs.
“This can be by providing financial aid such as accommodation expenses, medical expenses like pharmaceutical costs, travel costs and fuel, community transport, eligible household expenses such as electricity bills, rates notices and even groceries.
“Regardless of the type of cancer, regardless of your financial situation, we’re here to help.
“The application process is easy and stays confidential.”
Deniliquin Can Assist president Kellie Crossley said the district community has always been generous in helping to raise funds.
And while she appreciates everyone is under the strain of increased costs of living, she said donations need to increase to keep up with the demand for support.
“We are very well aware that many of our patients would simply not be able to afford access to treatment were it not for the work of Can Assist,” Mrs Crossley said.
“In the last financial year, we administered $86,000 in support funding.
“This was an increase of $17,000 from the previous financial year.”
“Of this amount, 40 per cent has been donated for travel expenses, 20 per cent medical and 10 per cent for accommodation, with the remainder made up of a variety of other support measures we provide.
“Can Assist’s vision is for every country community, family and individual to have equitable access to cancer care and support services.”
You can organise your own fundraising event by going to https://canassist.org.au/get-involved/fundraise/#authority, or donate via direct deposit to Can Assist Deniliquin - BSB: 633 000, Account: 235432.
For more information about Deniliquin Can Assist and how it can help you, go to https://canassist.org.au/.
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