The Western Region Office of the Canadian Cancer Society has been temporarily closed. The City of Corner Brook has reached out to the provincial office in St. John’s and has learned that the office closure is due to loss of staff through other employment. Services provided in our region have been practical support items, volunteer driving program, information and prevention, and peer support.

When asked about the future of support in Corner Brook the St. John’s Canadian Cancer Society office relayed that they have not had an opportunity to discuss a plan for the future. Supports and services will be provided through the Provincial Office at 709-753-6520.

The Society is exploring a new structure and needs time for executive and board members to meet and make decisions. According to a media release by the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation there may be a merger of the organizations in the future.

“Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be scary and confusing. Cancer care is a challenge for residents of our area and having the office close, even temporarily, is a loss for those dealing with a difficult time in their lives. We hope that those making the decision on the future of the Corner Brook office have discussions with the people in our community and consider the unique challenges of accessing services from an office in St. John’s.”

-Deputy Mayor Bernd Staeben

“The Canadian Cancer Society reports higher rates of cancer in Newfoundland and Labrador. Cancer impacts all of our lives, if not directly, then through the cancer diagnosis of a friend or family member. There is a need for in-person support for people and families facing a diagnoses and throughout their cancer journey. We encourage the Canadian Cancer Society to continue to provide an office and face-to-face services within our City and region.”

– Mayor Charles Pender

“We take our ability to provide support programs and services to people living with cancer in our province very seriously. It’s always a priority to ensure our clients receive the necessary support despite their geographic location or access to a Canadian Cancer Society office. We would like to ensure the people of the Western region that all programs & services are still being provided during this temporary office closure. Clients in need of accessing support can call 1-888-753-6520 for further information.”

-Nichole Patten, Manager of Revenue Development, Canadian Cancer Society

Background Information

• Media Release: Canadian Cancer Society and Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Plan to Merge
• Canadian Cancer Society Supports and Services

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mayor Charles Pender,

(709) 637-1537

cpender@cornerbrook.com