Susan G. Komen Arizona Shutting Down

Susan G. Komen Arizona, the local affiliate of the national not-for-profit dedicated to breast cancer research and awareness, is shutting down on July 31, they announced Wednesday. They cited financial challenges and declining participation.

"Closing Komen Arizona was a difficult decision, but was based on financial challenges and current downward trends in overall fundraising and event participation which limited our ability to continue to fulfill our mission locally," Christina Mencuccini, the executive director, and Jill Bray, the president, said in a letter posted on the group's website.

"It is with a heavy heart but an uplifting feeling of accomplishment thanks to your commitment that the directors of the Susan G. Komen® Arizona Affiliate bids you farewell and extends a sincere Thank you."

The organization is also canceling their annual Race for the Cure, which had been scheduled for October. It would have been the 25th running of the race. (Subscribe to local news alerts on Patch).

They say that $4.4 million has been returned to Arizona through 19 research grants.

"Komen is committed to continuing to provide patient support and engagement opportunities through its national programs in the state," the letter says.

"For example, Arizona residents may access treatment, clinical trial, education and other patient support programs through Komen’s national Help Line at 1-877-GO-KOMEN or through komen.org."

Image via Susan Komen Arizona