Community collaboration improves cancer care
MTA will match funds to benefit Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute patients
Kimberly VanSlyke-Smith’s latest opportunity to collaborate with community partners also is her first as the new Executive Director of Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute (GHCI). Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) has offered to match funds up to $50,000 for cancer patients needing rides to and from treatment at GHCI!
“I’m thrilled to shine a light on the cancer institute and our partnership with MTA to ensure every patient who needs transportation will receive those services,” VanSlyke-Smith announces. “It is critical that our patients don’t miss or postpone their scheduled medical treatments, and thanks to the tremendous generosity of MTA this will not happen!”
The MTA Rides to Wellness program is a comprehensive, non-emergency medical transportation service that provides door-to-door service and same day service to riders needing transportation to and from medical and other wellness-related appointments.
“Transportation should not be an obstacle to cancer treatment, and we are happy to lend a hand to hundreds of patients who rely on MTA Rides to Wellness for their access to this important health care need,” reports Ed Benning, CEO of MTA.
Last fiscal year, GHCI provided approximately 3,300 MTA wellness rides to more than 600 patients at a cost in excess of $58,000. The cost for one ride is $15 each way.
That is why financial support from MTA is so urgent, VanSlyke-Smith points out. Matching transportation funding from other donors will offset thousands of dollars GHCI spends every year to ensure patients get to and from their treatments.
Through the years, community partnerships have been a lifeline for GHCI patients. The American Cancer Society has provided grant funding, The Community Foundation of Greater Flint has assisted financially and Pink Par-Tee has supported an annual breast screening clinic.
“These are just a few of the community partnerships that are strengthening Genesee County’s foundation and building even stronger relationships among all of us to benefit every single person living in Genesee County,” VanSlyke-Smith announces. “It’s all about extending a helping hand to our most vulnerable population to ensure their health, safety and wellbeing.
Even though she is new to GHCI, VanSlyke-Smith is no stranger to Genesee County. Born and raised in this community, she has dedicated her career to helping the area’s underserved population receive the care they need and deserve. She accepted the executive director position at Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute after serving as Director of Nursing for the Genesee County Health Department.
“Working for a strong organization such as Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute is a point of pride for me,’ she adds. “I represent two Genesee County health care leaders – Ascension Genesys and Hurley – who have collaborated to provide cancer care all in one place, and close to home.”
GHCI not only offers medical services to help heal patients physically, but also quality of life programs to improve their emotional health. These programs are open at no charge to GHCI patients as well as Genesee County residents undergoing cancer treatment, and their caregivers.
If any community organizations would like to help GHCI hit its $50,000 match from MTA, please contact Lori Burger at 810.762.8313 or Michele Loper at 810.780.8864.
To learn more about Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute, visit ghci.org, or call 810.762.8226. For information on MTA and its Rides to Wellness program, call 810.780.8946.