CENTRAL REGION
$315,000 FCLF Loan
Acquisition of 2 buildings
Total 4,652 sq ft
Serving 185 families weekly
“With the help of Florida Community Loan Fund we are able to continue services to cancer families and children – those who struggle with any type of cancer, and individuals of all ages. Thanks for your help.” – Debbie Turner, Founder / Executive Director
Those who struggle with cancer need all the help they can get. While medical needs are handled by doctors and hospitals, day-to-day needs may sometimes be overlooked. Cancer survivor Debbie Turner was surprised at the lack of support, resources, and information during her struggles with the disease and its treatment.
To address this lack of services, Turner established the Debbie Turner Cancer Care and Resource Center nonprofit organization in Apopka, Florida. The center is a place for families in need, and services are focused on uninsured, under-insured, and low income families – to fill a need for those who don’t have anywhere else to turn. At the center, patients and families receive counseling and education. In addition, a licensed volunteer hair stylist helps with wigs, hair and makeup. A play place offers a safe spot for children of cancer patients to play, read a book, do homework, or just hang out; and they are encouraged to take home the toy or book of their choice. Volunteers provide transportation to grocery shopping, pharmacy, and treatments.
From its beginning in 2009, the Debbie Turner Center has grown; and now helps 185 families weekly across 5 counties. In 2016, services reached more than 1200, 25% of whom were new clients. With financing from Florida Community Loan Fund, the Center is purchasing its current building as well as a building next door. The new building will allow the Center to expand its services, as well as generate income through office space available to area small businesses.
FCLF financing will help the Debbie Turner Cancer Care and Resource Center continue to reach their mission in Central Florida: To diminish or eliminate suffering of cancer survivors, caregivers, children and families through community involvement and resources to establish and maintain hope.
Learn more at www.debbieturnercancercare.
