Supporting communities through open dialogue on cancer care and addressing food insecurity: Partnerships with local YMCAs

Background: A December 2024 USC Dornsife study found ~25% of LA County households faced food insecurity. The Lazarex Cancer Foundation, in partnership with USC NCCC and local YMCAs, supports communities experiencing cancer disparities and food insecurity. We provide welcoming, culturally responsive spaces for diverse and vulnerable groups to discuss cancer concerns and receive food support. Our goal is to advance cancer knowledge and offer free food by meeting individuals where they are with linguistically appropriate, culturally aligned information. Through YMCA partnerships, we've expanded access to cancer programs, resources, and services that improve outcomes across the cancer disparities continuum. Methods: From October 2021 to October 2025, Lazarex Cancer Wellness HUBs conduct ongoing outreach across multiple LA County YMCAs and community and faith-based partners. This partnership enables extensive outreach through wellness hubs, giving community members access to food, education, and connections to cancer support services that address key social determinants of health. Content includes screening guidelines, the importance of diverse clinical trial participation, self-advocacy strategies, trustworthy health information, and food access. Results: Over 8.6 million pounds of free food have been provided. We continue offering this service alongside cancer prevention information and connections to local resources. Food is also delivered to seniors and families lacking transportation or who feel unsafe in public spaces. More than 12,000 individuals across 148 zip codes have been served, with WELA Y completing 2,600+ safe deliveries. The Weingart YMCA has become a model for similar efforts across LA County. Conclusion: We developed a community outreach model that enables consistent engagement in diverse, vulnerable communities, offering culturally tailored cancer information. These efforts aim to reduce cancer disparities and food insecurity by increasing awareness, knowledge, and access to quality care and trustworthy resources. The Lazarex Cancer Wellness HUB demonstrates an effective approach to empowering individuals as informed advocates for cancer prevention, navigation, advanced care options, and food access.