Since its early beginnings as a grassroots organization in 1993, the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation (FBCF) has advocated for the importance of breast health education and quality healthcare for all, regardless of income or location. Everyone should have access to potentially life-saving information, screenings, and care, and FBCF actively ensures that women and men receive this breast health education in various communities throughout the state, particularly in under-served populations.
One of these programs supporting this objective is Mammograms After Sunday Service (MASS). The program, originally created by The Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource Center of Miami and previously funded by FBCF education grants, is now FBCF's signature breast health education program. The FBCF signature education program, partnered with the Florida Department of Health through its Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FBCCEDP), aims to reduce the number of late-stage diagnosis in underserved African American and other minority communities by providing breast health education and access to mammograms.
Pamela Burnett, Director of FBCF's Signature Education Program, MASS
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, black women have a disproportionately higher mortality rate due to breast cancer when compared to white women. The statewide MASS program works to eliminate this racial disparity through empowerment and education about breast health awareness and the importance of getting mammograms.
Through educational seminars and partnerships with local health departments, the MASS program provides underinsured and uninsured women access to onsite mammograms or referrals, removing barriers due to cost, literacy, cultural, or transportation challenges, which often prevent these women from receiving vital screenings and services. Attendees who qualify for services through the health department are provided care coordination and follow-ups, including referrals to the Florida Medicaid Program should they be diagnosed with breast cancer through the program. Those qualified may receive paid breast cancer treatment through Medicaid.
If you are interested in bringing the MASS Program to your place of worship or women’s group, OR would like to VOLUNTEER with the MASS Program, please contact Pamela Burnett at 786.525.6584 or thebeautifulgatecsrc@gmail.com
SEE UPCOMING MASS PRESENTATIONS
About the MASS Project
Founded by Pamela Burnett, Founder of The Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource Center (TBG), Pamela has over 15 years of experience in community outreach and advocacy. She is highly respected in the community for her activism in health issues for the underserved. As a breast cancer survivor, she knows firsthand what it is like to lack proper resources and education when diagnosed with a life-threatening disease. Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others diagnosed with cancer has been rewarded and recognized by numerous organizations.