Links for Life

WE’RE AN ORGANIZATION THAT FOCUSES ON THE POSITIVE.

 

Our Mission as an organization is:

To Provide an organization to benefit persons and families affected by breast cancer.
To Challenge each woman in Kern County to be aware of her breast health and promote support for those affected.
To Educate the general public about breast health.

 

Why We Exist

In 1992, a unique 501c3 nonprofit organization was formed by Kern County women to help other Kern County women diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Since that time, the local organization has provided services and support to all Kern County women, men and families, whether insured, uninsured or underinsured, during their journey from diagnosis to health.

The Facts

• 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime.
• In 2015, there were approximately 427 Kern County women diagnosed with Breast Cancer
• This year in Kern County approximately 70 women will lose their battle to Breast Cancer.

With Hope

• From 2005-15, Links for Life funded 3400+ mammograms, 5280+ ultrasounds and 410 needle biopsies resulting in 34 Kern County women being diagnosed with Breast Cancer.
• 100% of funds raised stays in Kern County.
• 100% of services provided go to Kern County women and men.

 

 Our Services Include

• Free Mammograms for uninsured, underinsured women who are not otherwise covered.
• Needle biopsies for women under the age of 40 who have a suspicious mass in need of a conclusive diagnosis.
• Academic scholarships are provided annually to college students in order to assist them in advancing their education.
• Cancer Resource Library and internet access at the Links for Life office is available for clients.
• The “Missing Link Boutique” offers personally fitted wigs, hats and scarves to help regain a positive image and strength.
• Breast Cancer Support Groups offer encouragement, support, friendship and information on resources.
• Breast Health Seminars for professionals educating women on the importance of mammography and breast self-examination.

 

Today, Links for Life fields over 4,000 calls regarding questions related to breast cancer, provides 240 wigs and 20 bras/prosthesis, arranges for 440 mammograms, 242 ultrasounds and 45 needle biopsies for women under 40 that are uninsured or under-insured.

Encouraged by our accomplishments to date, we are determined to continue the battle against breast cancer by meeting the needs of the community in which we live. With your help, we can continue to do that. So Give Where You Live, GIVE BIG KERN.

 

Serving breast cancer survivors and their caregivers since 1992!

Who We Are

In 1992, our founder Sharyn Woods wanted to provide support for her friends that were diagnosed with breast cancer. Due to her desire to help others, Links for Life has provided 500,000 in services, 5,000 wigs and invested more than $8 million into the local community. Through the generous support of our partners, we will continue this important work and continue to grow our outreach.

Last year, we funded more than 200 mammograms, fitted 300 women with wigs or head coverings and supported more than 500 survivors and their families with support through our five monthly support groups. Our grocery card program has served more than 30 patients with grocery cards that off-set their day-to-day expenses. Our outreach services have educated more than 76,000 community members with our breast health outreach program.