History & Mission

Our Mission

“Cancer Services strives to assist cancer patients and their families emotionally and financially and to educate the community on prevention and awareness of cancer-related issues.”

Core Values

Compassion – We understand that we are in business to care for others when they need it most and commit to approaching all situations with compassion and humanity.

Inclusiveness – To provide a safe space that embraces diversity, inclusion, and equity in all aspects of the organization.

Service – Our team is committed to providing customized services that exceed our community’s expectations.

Excellence – We hold ourselves and others to a standard of excellence as we serve our clients and community.

Respect – We treat our clients, our community, and our co-workers with respect at all times.

Optimism – We are hopeful and confident that one day there will be a cure for cancer.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Cancer Services, our mission strives to assist cancer patients and their families emotionally and financially and to educate the community on prevention and awareness of cancer-related issues. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals affected by cancer, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, ability, or any other characteristic. We firmly believe that diversity is our strength, and we are committed to creating a culture of equity and inclusion in everything we do.

Inclusion is at the heart of our work. We actively seek and value input from all members of our community, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected. We are dedicated to creating an organizational culture that fosters collaboration, openness, and a sense of belonging for everyone involved with Cancer Services.

By embracing diversity, promoting equity, and fostering inclusion, we strive to build a stronger and more resilient community where everyone affected by cancer can find the support they need. Cancer Services is committed to continuous learning and improvement as we work towards a future where health disparities are eliminated and everyone has the opportunity to live a life free from the burdens of cancer.

Our History

Cancer Services is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) agency that provides free services to local cancer patients and their families. Our services are designed to help reduce the financial and emotional burdens that often follow a cancer diagnosis.

In 1960, local residents banded together to help fill the gap in services available to local community members living with a cancer diagnosis. They established what was formerly known as the Erie County Cancer Society. After several years of providing services to local families, organizers determined that the name should be changed to distinguish between their local organizations and national organizations. On July 18, in 1985, “Cancer Services of Erie County” was adopted as the new name.

In the last six years alone, Cancer Services has extended support to more than 1,700 cancer patients—a testament to our unwavering commitment. Across our 60-year journey, the impact has reached countless lives.

Looking ahead, Cancer Services remains steadfast in its mission, pledging to stand by the side of cancer patients. Our dedication stems from the belief that no one in the community should face this diagnosis in isolation. Together, we stride forward, ensuring no one walks this path alone.

Cancer Services continues to be an independent non-profit and is not affiliated with any national organizations. All of our funds are RAISED LOCAL AND STAY LOCAL to provide direct services to local cancer patients and their families.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR YEAR ROUND CORPORATE SPONSOR: Beck Oil / Friendship! Their partnership with Cancer Services supports our Patient Services Program, daily operations and helps ensure that we can serve every cancer patient that comes through our door.