During National Social Work Month, the program, part of the Adelphi University School of Social Work, thanks to the social workers on staff, introduces text messaging and asks for all of us to speak out to keep this vital program going strong.
“For more than 40 years, the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program has been providing emotional support as well as resources to the breast cancer community,” said Reyna Machado, executive director of the program, which serves women—and men—battling breast cancer. “As we celebrate National Social Work Month, we recognize the tireless efforts of our social workers and their unwavering support of individuals and families.”
The program was established through the Adelphi University School of Social Work in 1980. Licensed social workers provide individual and family counseling and train and supervise volunteers, all of whom are breast cancer survivors, to offer advice and support to clients during challenging times. The program also provides Adelphi social work students with the opportunity to gain valuable experience through internship and practicum opportunities.
Now offering texting
“Our program is always ready to evolve to meet the needs of the community,” said Nina Foley, MSW ’18, hotline/volunteer coordinator. This month the hotline introduced a text option to the toll-free hotline. People who prefer can text 516.262.3263, and a social worker will text back with a message alerting them when they will receive a phone call.
According to Foley, texting “allows us to reach a growing population that prefers the ease of communication through text message and enhances accessibility for individuals affected by breast cancer, facilitating prompt communication and addressing their needs efficiently.”
“Raise your voice. Reinstate our program.”
Despite the vital role the program has played for decades, Machado said the New York state budget for fiscal year 2025 has not reinstated funding of $283,000. “The program urgently needs funding in order to continue addressing the needs of the breast cancer community,” she said.
We can help ensure this vital program continues to serve those affected by breast cancer by contacting our elected officials and request this funding be reinstated, and by supporting the hotline, which will be one of the featured causes on Adelphi’s Giving Day on April 17.