FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE STEP SISTERS RECEIVE CRISIS FUND SUPPORT
Beyond the Entertainer Steps in to Assist Area Breast Cancer Patient
ASHBURN, Virginia (October 21, 2021) – The Step Sisters are grateful to announce the support of Washington Football Team offensive tackle Charles Leno Jr. and his organization, Beyond the Entertainer. Mr. Leno stepped in quickly to assist a local breast cancer patient who was facing financial challenges, paying her rent and utilities so she could focus on treatment.
The Step Sisters fund a variety of support services, all designed to remove obstacles to treatment. In 2017, the group expanded their services, adding a Crisis Fund to specifically assist patients facing financial emergencies during costly breast cancer treatment. The fund covers housing and utility costs.
Mr. Leno explains, “When most people think of fighting breast cancer, they think of funding research which is important, but we also have to support patients that are battling the disease right now. Women should not have to decide if they are going to pay their rent or pay for their treatment. I was proud to be able to assist this patient so she can continue her treatment plan.”
As the pandemic began, The Step Sisters noted a sharp increase in demand for these funds. As Co-Executive Director Angela Fuentes states, “Requests for our Crisis Funds have nearly doubled since the start of the pandemic and in this year alone, we have spent over $38,000 preventing evictions and keeping the lights on for patients who are struggling.”
Co-Executive Director Ashley Campolattaro adds, “The pandemic has limited our fundraising opportunities, but to date we had not declined a patient needing these emergency funds. But when this latest request came in, we knew we didn’t have the money to help. We are so thankful to Mr. Leno and his organization. He truly saved the day for this patient.”
ABOUT THE STEP SISTERS
The Step Sisters work to improve the quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer in the Northern Virginia region. Partnering with seven area hospitals, the group funds needed support services such as transportation, food delivery and childcare as well as housing and utility assistance. Each service is designed to ease a patient’s mind and ensure continuity of treatment.
For more information about the Step Sisters, please visit http://www.stepsisters.org
ABOUT BEYOND THE ENTERTAINER
Beyond the Entertainer is dedicated to showing the world that there is more to the athlete than what meets the eye. By mentoring, empowering, and inspiring the community of all ages, Beyond the Entertainer believes that they can provide opportunities, set examples, and help lay the foundation for our futures.
For more information on Beyond the Entertainer, please visit @Beyondthe72 on Twitter or @BeyondtheEntertainer on Instagram.
CONTACT:
Aimee Taylor
703.725.1294 aimee.taylor@marketalignment.com