Grant Will Help Expand Cancer Services to Valley Families

The following was submitted for publication on behalf of the The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation:

The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to Gilda’s Club Desert Cities to support the nonprofit organization’s clinical services to men, women, children and teens in the Coachella Valley affected by cancer. Gilda’s Club Desert Cities programs are open to everyone at no cost, with the idea that no one has to face cancer alone. Participants find cancer and wellness-related education, workshops, emotional support, networking, and activities designed to empower them.

“The generous gift from the Berger Foundation means that more people faced with cancer can receive the support they need,’” said Maria Elena Geyer, President/Chief Executive Officer of Gilda’s Club Desert Cities. “As our client base continues to grow, we are grateful to supporters, like the Berger Foundation, that continue to see the need and are here to help these cancer patients, survivors and their families through a challenging time.”

Gilda’s Club, named for actress and comedienne Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer at the age of 42, provides a place where people touched with cancer can join with others to build social and emotional support. Clubs are located throughout the country. Gilda’s Club Desert Cities was founded in 2000, and since that time, has grown to be one of the area’s leading cancer support organizations. Gilda’s Club Desert Cities serves more than 2,300 community members and guests who have made over 9,000 visits to the Palm Desert clubhouse throughout the last year.

“Gilda’s Club continues to address a need in the lives of many Coachella Valley residents,” said Catharine Reed, Senior Program Officer for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “The many programs offered by Gilda’s Club connect people and remind them that they do not have to go through this journey alone.”

With more than 95 monthly program offerings, Gilda’s Club Desert Cities is likely to have a group, lecture or workshop that can address nearly every individual’s needs. Support groups vary from “Life After Treatment” to “Couples During Cancer,” “Kid Support,” and many more. Gentle exercise, nutrition, expressive arts classes, social activities and lectures are also available at Gilda’s Club. All programs are offered free of charge, and many are provided in both English and Spanish.

For more information about Gilda’s Club Desert Cities, call 760-770-5678, or visit www.gildasclubdesertcities.org.

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