Michelle’s Place Breast Cancer Resource Center in Southwest Riverside County took 48 children of mothers battling breast cancer on a “Looking Cool for School” shopping spree on Tuesday, August 14th to purchase back-to-school clothes thanks to a generous donation from Stater Bros. Charities.
Each child was given a $150 budget at Kohl’s to purchase clothes, shoes, and necessities for going back to school.
“Breast cancer treatment can be very costly, so basic needs such as back to school supplies and clothes can be difficult for families to provide,” said Kim Gerrish, Executive Director of Michelle’s Place. “Thanks to Stater Bros. Charities, we can eliminate that extra burden on them by providing everything their child needs to look cool on their first day of school.”
Over 20 volunteers took the children through the store to help them find and purchase their items.
Michelle’s Place also helps students by hosting an annual Party in the Park event in August that provides over 115 backpacks full of school supplies to children of families undergoing breast cancer treatment. This event is made possible through donations by community supporters.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the amount of support we receive every year toward this program,” said Gerrish. “This wouldn’t be possible without community involvement.”
Michelle’s Place sees an average of 70 newly diagnosed individuals a month, many of whom are under 40 years old with young children. Operating on a vision that no one will face cancer alone, Michelle’s Place offers a range of support services and resources for the entire family impacted by the disease.