History
The charity was started in 1999 by a team of health care professionals in University Hospital Waterford who recognised the need for and benefits of non-medical supports for those affected by cancer. The services quickly outgrew its original rented facility. Following a massive community effort that started in 2008 the necessary funds were raised and a new purpose-built centre opened in 2011 - celebrating its 10th birthday in February this year.

Our Mission
To support people affected by cancer, their families, and carers in Waterford and the South East.

Our Objectives
1. To provide the highest quality cancer support services to the people of Waterford and the South East. These support services include counselling, relaxation therapies and group support services which are provided at the Solas Cancer Support Centre. We provide those affected by cancer, their families and carers with a safe place; a place to talk things over, to relax and express emotions.

2. To advocate at national level – with Government and HSE – to ensure that the cancer services in the South East region of Ireland are world class and are accessible to all.

3. To promote awareness and educate people about cancer. We partner with other organisations around cancer prevention, the early diagnosis of cancer, recovery from cancer and health and wellbeing. We promote a change of mindset around cancer – to help all of us to talk more freely about cancer, to live with it and encourage the whole community to support people living with cancer and their families and carers.

What we do
The charity provides free support services to those affected by cancer, their families and carers in the Waterford and West Waterford area.
A wide range of services are available including Reflexology, Massage, Reiki, Counselling, Meditation, Yoga and Art therapy for children and adolescents and various group support activities.
Services are available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm and in September 2016 opened a West Waterford service based in Dungarvan on a Monday.

Our amazing team!
The Solas Cancer Support Centre is supported by over 70 volunteers, 20 counsellors and therapists, 6 community employment scheme workers, 4 staff members (3 full time and 1 part time) and a voluntary Board of Trustees. This huge voluntary commitment is essential to the running of the services and the service is so fortunate to have this invaluable support.

How your funding would be used:
The service costs approximately €600,000 per year to run and the majority of this funding is due to donations and fundraising activities. Should we be chosen as a beneficiary of your charity funds they would go towards sustaining and further developing the services provided at the centre.

Abigail Keller's Youth Dance for Life

Created by Abigail Keller

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