“We are here to help.” It’s a simple promise, but for someone battling cancer, it’s a lifeline. The Henry County Cancer Society is a testament to what happens when caring neighbors work together. What began decades ago with Rosemary Muncy has evolved into a robust support network led by a team of devoted community members. Through a partnership with the Henry County Community Foundation, the Cancer Society receives an annual payout from an endowed fund, ensuring that Rosemary’s spirit of generosity continues to touch lives in Henry County every day.
Currently leading the way is a group of devoted community members. Nancy Lewis, Wendy Padgett, Holly Guffey, Nora Rust, and Krista Gibson combined their minds and spirits to bring this organization back to life. Nancy shared, “Our goal is to partner with other local agencies involved with cancer assistance to utilize all resources available to help those in need. I want the community to know that resources are available for them through this fund.”
In 2024 alone, the Cancer Society provided $10,655 in direct assistance to 24 cancer patients, helping them overcome everyday obstacles that became insurmountable during treatment.
“We’ve done everything from gas cards and food assistance to paying for Uber rides so patients can get to treatment,” shared Nancy Lewis, a dedicated advocate with the Cancer Society. “One winter, we even filled a propane tank for a farmer battling cancer who couldn’t work. His family didn’t have heat. That propane got them through the season.”
For one mother of four, enduring chemotherapy made it impossible to get to the laundromat. With the Foundation’s support, the Cancer Society purchased a washer and dryer for her home, restoring a small but essential comfort during a difficult time.
Beyond financial support, the Cancer Society offers hands-on help by picking up food from pantries for immunocompromised patients who can’t safely leave their homes. They also collaborate with local hospice organizations to identify families in desperate need of support.
“There are no other agencies doing exactly what we do,” Nancy explained. “We don’t look at income because cancer isn’t income-based—it hits everyone. So many people can’t work during treatment and lose their income entirely. That’s where we step in.”
The ongoing support from the Foundation’s endowed fund ensures that the Cancer Society can continue its mission year after year. Unlike one-time fundraising efforts, this fund provides a consistent payout, offering stability in an increasingly challenging fundraising landscape.
If you need assistance or want to help further their mission, you can learn more about the Henry County
Cancer Society through their Facebook page or on their website: Henrycountycancersocietyinc.org. You
can also connect directly with the Cancer Society by email: Henrycountycancersocietyinc@gmail.com,
through Facebook Messenger or call 765-686-2260.
Donations may be made to the Henry County Cancer Society through the Henry County Community
Foundation: Henry County Cancer Society, c/o Henry County Community Foundation, PO Box 6006, New
Castle, IN 47362.
Gifts like these make this impact happen. When you support or establish a fund, you create a legacy of
compassion that continues to care for your neighbors, even when you’re no longer here. It’s a gift that
reaches beyond the present moment, providing comfort, dignity, and hope for future generations.