Community Corner

Ankeny's Cops Against Cancer Needs Iowa's Help to Stay Afloat

The non-profit organization, founded by Ankeny police officer Craig Phinney to provide financial assistance to those battling cancer, has depleted its funding and is seeking public donations while it awaits word on grants.

An Ankeny non-profit created to provide financial assistance to people battling cancer has run out of money.

Cops Against Cancer, founded by Ankeny police officer Craig Phinney, is asking for the public's help to replenish funds needed by the organization.

Phinney and his wife, Shirley, started the non-profit in 2009. It's mission is to provide both emotional and financial support to individuals and families who are battling cancer, after Phinney fought and survived his own bout with colon cancer.

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Related: Ankeny Cop's Organization Offers Help to Families Facing Cancer

Phinney recently was interviewed by WHO-TV in Des Moines, telling the station the need has exceeded donations.

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"When the funding's not there, it's hard to tell someone we wish we could, but we can't," Phinney said in the interview. "It's hard for a cop, because when people call us, you're there to help them, and we're not able to do that right now."

Phinney also told the television station that he has applied for grant funding, but "grants take time."

Ankeny Patch first started following Phinney and his mission to spread awareness about the organization and its mission in January 2012. A 12-Hour Fitness Challenge was held in February and raised $6,500 for Cops Against Cancer.

A BBQ fundraiser also was held in August 2012.

Since then, the response he's received from families and individuals needing financial assistance while going through cancer treatments has been "overwhelming," Phinney said.

To make a donation to Cops Against Cancer, visit the organization's website or contact Phinney at 515-783-9833 or copsagainstcancer.org@live.com.


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