Founded in 1997 Hellenicare’s mission is to alleviate poverty and oppression by building healthy, secure and productive lives. As an organization founded by Hellenes and caring for Hellenes, Hellenicare targets vulnerable populations in historic Hellenic communities. Services are open to all who are in need and are from all age groups.

Hellenicare has been a lifeline to people in the former Soviet Republics and in the Republic of Albania without jobs, shelter, clothing, food and medical care. Over the years, they have provided $135 million worth of medical care, medicines, food, clothing and equipment to these poor and vulnerable communities.

In the Republic of Ukraine, Hellenicare operates the first privately own medical center for women’s health in Mariupol, Ukraine. The “Sister to Sister” program, created in 2007, provides public health education regarding breast cancer and support for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Since 2005, Hellenicare has screened nearly 12,000 women for breast cancer, for free.

“Women in the former Soviet Republics are being underserved when it comes to health care, especially for breast cancer,” says Dr. Charles Kanakis, Vice President of Medical Affairs. When Hellenicare constructed it medical center in Mariupol, we wanted to provide a medical service that was not being met. Women’s health and breast cancer screening were on the top of the list.”

A special event will take place on July 31 to benefit the “Sister to Sister” program in Mariupol.

The Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago will host “A Night for Hellenicare” at the St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Fellowship Hall in Elmhurst, IL, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

“This event is the kind of community outreach that enables Hellenicare to continue its good work in Georgia, Armenia and Ukraine,” said President and Founder Andrew A. Athens.

Source: USA Greek Reporter