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Women's Cancer Fund

The Women's Cancer Fund exists within the Foundation. It was established in 2002 to ensure that resources would always be available for breast and other cancers that affect women. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, and ranks second among cancer deaths in women behind lung cancer.

The mission of the Women's Cancer Fund remains the same as the Foundation's, with grants awarded through competitive, open peer review. There is one common board of directors, staff and grant process. The distinction lies in that donations may be restricted to the Women's Cancer Fund rather than remain in the general fund of the Foundation. Once restricted, funds may only be used for grants and programs for cancers that affect women.

The Cure Breast Cancer for ME event is the primary source of funding for the Women's Cancer Fund. Founded in 2002 as a luncheon drawing upwards of 600 people. Significant dollars have been raised at this event. Combined with additional breast cancer fundraisers throughout the year, notably the Sea Bags pink ribbon bag promotion, Sea Dogs Mother’s Day 5k, Saco Bay Physical Therapy 5k, other activities, memorials and gifts, the Women's Cancer Fund has become a significant source of funding in Maine, raising over a million dollars by 2009.

At this time, the Women's Cancer Fund is the only alternative to the general Fund; the Foundation does not provide any other disease or gender specific funds.