WARNER ROBINS -- Georgia Cancer Friends Foundation, a new foundation in Middle Georgia, is taking on the task of helping individuals and families deal with the consequences of being diagnosed with cancer.

The group conducted an eat-in or take-out kick-off lasagna dinner Friday at Trinity United Methodist Church where organizers said they served some 750 plates at $10 each.

Calling the event a success, the foundations’ founder, Judy Mason, said she looks forward to what the new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization will be able to accomplish.

“Our goal is to support individuals and their families who are fighting cancer,” Mason said. “Our mission is to help them deal with the consequences of this diagnosis by providing emotional, intellectual, spiritual and financial support and resources in their time of need.”

Mason said 100 percent of all money raised from donations, fundraisers and other events by Cancer Friends will go to financially strapped Middle Georgia cancer patients and their families to help pay bills. She said there are no administrative costs taken out.

Persons wishing to receive aid from Cancer Friends must have a referral from a cancer doctor, or oncologist, that indicates the need for financial assistance. Mason said payments will not be made to individuals but will be made to past due accounts only.

Mason said each request will be overseen and reviewed by caseworkers and submitted to the foundation’s board for consideration.

She also said the foundation will work to encourage men and women to take charge of their health by getting routine examinations and diagnostic tests.

Georgia Cancer Friends is on Facebook and has a website under construction at georgiacancerfriends.org. The foundation may be contacted at 953-1377.

Contact Michael W. Pannell at mwpannell@gmail.com.