Gunnison Tough, Living Journeys and the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation Launch $75,000 Cancer Screening Access Fund to Save Lives

Gunnison Tough, Living Journeys and the Gunnison Valley Health (GVH) Foundation are proud to announce the Cancer Screening Access Fund, a groundbreaking collaboration designed to improve access to lifesaving cancer screenings for individuals in our community. This initiative reflects the power of partnership in advancing health equity, providing early detection and care and offering compassionate support to those in need.

United by a shared vision, the three organizations have each committed $25,000, creating a $75,000 fund for 2025. This fund will support prostate, colon, lung and uterine cancer screenings, offering up to $2,000 per applicant to ease financial barriers for underinsured and uninsured community members.

“This initiative is about so much more than funding; it’s about hope and solidarity,” said Heidi Sherratt, Executive Director of Gunnison Tough. “By combining our strengths, we’re breaking down barriers to early detection and ensuring that every person in our community has access to lifesaving care. Early detection is not just critical—it’s life-changing.”

Applications for the Cancer Screening Access Fund will be managed by Gunnison Valley Health, ensuring a seamless and supportive process for individuals seeking assistance. While the fund prioritizes prostate, colon, lung and uterine screenings, breast screenings will remain under the dedicated support of the Gunnison Tough Screening Program. This program continues to enhance comprehensive breast care at GVH, utilizing over $1.1 million in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment generously donated by Gunnison Tough.

“This fund embodies the spirit of collaboration and community care that defines the Gunnison Valley,” said Julie Reid, Executive Director of Living Journeys. “Together, we are creating a safety net for our neighbors, ensuring no one has to choose between their health and their financial well-being. This partnership reflects our collective belief that we are stronger when we work together.”

“The Cancer Screening Access Fund demonstrates the profound impact we can achieve by working together as a community,” said Jenny Birnie, Executive Director of the GVH Foundation. “It’s an opportunity to provide hope and critical resources to those who need it most, while reinforcing our commitment to health equity and access to care.”

“We are proud to be part of this vital initiative,” said Jason Amrich, CEO of Gunnison Valley Health. “Access to cancer screenings can save lives, and this fund ensures that financial barriers do not stand in the way of early detection and care for our community members. We are grateful for the ongoing partnership of both Gunnison Tough and Living Journeys and the support they provide our community.”

The Cancer Screening Access Fund will be reassessed annually to address evolving community needs and ensure its ongoing impact. Applications will open on February 1, 2025. For more information about the fund, eligibility and how to apply, visit www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org or contact the GVH Foundation at 970-642-8406.

Together, we are building a community where health, hope and compassion thrive—because early detection saves lives.