P.O. Box  644, Bridgeville, 15017

Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of female cancer patients by addressing emotional and psychological needs during treatment, to educate women about available programs and resources for early diagnosis and comprehensive cancer treatment, and, through shared experiences and hands-on participation, to foster a sense of community.

Through its Satchels of Caring Program, CREW uses donated fabric, trim and labor in order to hand stitch one-of-a-kind shoulder bags that are filled with practical, therapeutic and inspirational contents such as a soft turban, a scarf with tying instructions, hand creams and lip balm, a relaxing music CD, notecards designed by a breast cancer survivor, and a journal to encourage self-expression. We also include important resource literature that describes various national and local outreach programs including referral services, online support networks, and information about free or low-cost medical services.

CREW members and friends, along with civic and church groups, Girl Scout troops, cancer survivor organizations, and consumer science classes in more than 20 local middle and high schools and colleges donate their time and talent to assemble kits, then to cut, sew, fill and distribute the bags. Much of the work is done at Community Action events which are held throughout the year. Since its inception in 2003, the project has attracted hundreds of volunteers who have donated thousands of hours.

From our headquarters in Downtown Pittsburgh, Foundation members and “Helping Hands” have delivered over 5,300 satchels, at no charge to women with any type of cancer, through such organizations as Cancer Caring Center, Hillman Cancer Center, Gildas Club, the American Cancer Societys Look Good:Feel Better Program, St. Clair Hospital, and the Pittsburgh affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Click here to view the full portrait