Foundation Support helps to bring hope amid fight against breast cancer
Boxes of Hope, a nonprofit in Lock Haven founded by Traci Fotorny, is a recipient of competitive grants from the Clinton County Community Foundation. The agency received two grants in 2025: One that funds care packages to breast cancer patients, and another that supports a special and free event in October for those same patients.
Boxes of Hope held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony in its new office in downtown Lock Haven on May 16, followed by open houses the following two days. “We provide care packages and mastectomy pillows to anyone who is going through breast cancer treatments,” said Fotorny, who founded and leads the nonprofit as its board president. “Our care package recipients said they feel so encouraged and care about when they receive one of our packages. Boxes of Hope’s care packages have a positive impact on helping breast cancer patients get through their treatments. It gives them hope and encouragement and lets them know they are not alone on their journey.” The agency conducts a “Pink Warrior Day” in October, when patients are offered free sessions with hair and makeup stylists and others. “We know that going through cancer treatments makes you feel less than beautiful. Hair loss, weight gain from treatments, loss of breasts and scars really take an emotional toll. We invite breast cancer warriors toa day of pampering where they can see their beauty shine bright,” Fortony wrote in her grant application. At the recent grand opening, Fortony and other volunteers gathered.
Shown, from left, are Chayna Guiswite, treasurer; Donna Jeirles, vice president; Fotorny and Rachel Ellis, secretary. To learn more about how to support the Foundation and sustain giving in our community to help nonprofits such as Boxes of Hope, visit www.clintoncountyfoundation.org, or call 570-220-1038.
