STATE COLLEGE — The Bob Perks Assistance Fund is expanding its service to now include the Bedford County area. As of Monday, March 3, patients receiving cancer treatment and residing in Bedford County can apply for BPF’s financial assistance.
“This exciting expansion has been made possible through the dedicated work of BPF board members, staff and volunteers, including the fundraising efforts led by Juls Bratton and the Girls Night Out Altoona committee,” the nonprofit shared in a press release. “Generous donations made by Cove Cause for Cancer, Girls Night Out Altoona and UPMC Altoona helped make this expansion a reality.”
BPF was founded in 2006 to honor the State College Native, Bob Perks, who died from melanoma in 2005. The nonprofit’s mission is to ease the financial burden of local cancer patients so that they can focus on their wellness and treatments.
“BPF helps to pay everyday living expenses, such as rent, utilities, food, gas and more,” the press release continued. “Applicants who demonstrate that increased expenses and/or decreased income are directly related to their cancer diagnosis can apply for up to $1,000 in assistance every 90 days. “
BPF has raised and distributed more than $3 million since it was founded nearly 18 years ago, helping residents in Centre, Blair, Clearfield, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata counties with basic expenses, with its services now available to Bedford County.
According to BPF, 2024 was a record year for the nonprofit as $367,000 was given to 464 patients across the six counties — both numbers marking a record for BPF since its inception.
“If you or someone you know are currently struggling financially while battling cancer, and live in Bedford County or one of the other six counties in BPF’s service area, please speak to your oncology team about Bob Perks Fund or contact BPF at apply@bobperksfund.org,” BPF said in its press release.
Bedford County cancer patients can also find support by contacting the Pink Ribbon Fund or the Matt Baker Cancer Fund.
