JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – For several years, the Jamestown Cancer Support Group (JCSG) has provided gas cards for patients traveling to receive cancer care.

To do this, they rely heavily on fundraisers and donations to afford this type of care. Since 2009, the organization has given 398 gas cards and spent over $55,000. Since January this year, they have distributed 34 cards valued at $150 a piece.

A large fundraiser for the group has been the Quarter Craze, which JCSG Board Member Beth Dewald says they have had to cancel this year.

JCSG Founder Laurel Haroldson says even though one of their biggest fundraisers has been canceled, the need remains the same.

“Even though COVID-19 has made our fundraisers go away, cancer does not go away,” Haroldson stated. “We’re sad we can’t hold our fundraisers, but now more than ever we need to raise money to support our mission.”

The group is currently holding a mailing campaign to help raise money to purchase gas cards. Those who wish to make a donation can do so by mailing checks to Jamestown Cancer Support Group at PO Box 1756 Jamestown or donate to their Paypal here.

The organization serves Stutsman, Dickey, Foster, Barnes, LaMoure, and Eddy Counties and relies on referrals in order to distribute the gas cards.

“We are known through word of mouth,” Haroldson added. “We get referrals from the social workers at the Jamestown Regional Medical Center, which has been nice. We are always accepting more to help those who need it.”

Another fundraiser the group has been doing is selling face masks at Babb’s Coffee House. Board Member Kim Weyer has been making masks for sale with proceeds benefiting the organization. Currently they’re sold out, but they will be available as soon as their ready.

For more information, visit jamestowncancersupport.org or like them on Facebook at Jamestown Cancer Support Group.