On October 2, 2018, Kohl’s announced the donation of more than $1 million to the American Cancer Society over 1.5 years, to implement programming that improves the health and wellness of Milwaukee-area families through the Kohl’s Healthy Families program and continues Kohl’s ongoing support of the fight against cancer. The grant funds the launch of several new pilot programs that increase awareness and understanding of healthy food choices and improve access to cancer screenings and treatment for those who face the greatest barriers to health care services.
“Kohl’s is proud to continue our partnership with the American Cancer Society to increase the access individuals and families have to comprehensive programming and services that empower them to make informed decisions about their health,” said Jen Johnson, Kohl’s senior vice president of communications. “As a company committed to serving families, we applaud the work the American Cancer Society is doing to make a difference in our community every day by ensuring all families have access to the resources they need.”
The grant will fund new Cancer Screening Navigation initiatives and healthy foods pilot projects within the Kohl’s Healthy Families program:
• Cancer Screening Navigation – Through the pilot initiatives with Milwaukee-area health care clinics, individuals and families will receive assistance as they navigate the healthcare system to gain access to screenings, follow-up care and other important resources.
• Building Healthy Communities – Nutrition-focused, evidence-based intervention pilot projects will be implemented in Milwaukee communities to increase the access to and knowledge of healthy foods. The projects will bring nutrition education to communities through school, clinic and faith-based settings.
“A substantial number of cancer deaths could be prevented by making healthy choices, like eating well and being active. With Kohl’s ongoing commitment to the Kohl’s Healthy Families program, we’re able to continue offering tips, tools and other resources to help families in southeast Wisconsin live healthy and lower their risk of cancer,” said Laurie Bertrand, American Cancer Society’s executive director in Wisconsin. “Our partnership with Kohl’s continues to meet a need in our community and provides critical support for the fight against cancer.”
The donation will also continue Kohl’s annual support of the Community Health Workers Conference, during which healthcare professionals receive training on delivering cancer prevention and screening services in medically-underserved communities. The grant will also support school wellness policies and practices within the Kohl’s Healthy Families program, Relay for Life events and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Milwaukee.
Since 2001, Kohl’s and Kohl’s Cares have committed more than $100 million to organizations in the Milwaukee area, including more than $11 million to the American Cancer Society.