The Singletons is a local nonprofit dedicated to helping single-parent families battle cancer. Here, Jody Boyd, executive director and founder, discusses why donations are critical for the summer months ahead and how our community can help the nonprofit during its greatest time of need.
What is the mission of The Singletons?
The Singletons is a community dedicated to providing strength, hope and support for single-parent families affected by cancer. Our organization provides services to a growing population of single parents who are battling cancer or have children battling cancer.
What inspired you to start the nonprofit?
Seventeen years ago, my friend Michelle Singleton was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was a single mother, doing her best to fight this disease and provide for her children. As I tried my best to find resources available to lend support to Michelle and her family, I realized quickly that there weren’t many. We sadly lost Michelle in 2005. Shortly after, The Singletons was born. What began as a tribute to one brave, devout single mother of four has blossomed into a beautiful haven of hope for the many cancer warriors who have walked the same journey as Michelle.
What are the biggest challenges your organization faces?
Monetary donations are what help keep our doors open and allow us to serve a growing number of families. To provide monthly supplies, groceries, utility/gas stipends, programing and events, we rely on the generosity of the local community members, businesses and donors.
Why is this summer a critical time for donations?
Summer is the most critical time for donations because our pantry shelves can get very low over the summer. With school out, people out of town and businesses on varied summer schedules, the usual donations and drives slow down during this time.
In addition to monetary donations, bare necessities donations are also extremely helpful. Bare necessities are the vital household supplies we provide our families monthly, along with groceries, clothing and more. Some examples of bare necessities items include Clorox wipes, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, laundry detergent and more.
How can our community help?
There are a variety of ways the community can help support The Singletons. Individuals can consider making a monetary donation, a bare necessities donation or volunteering at one of our events. Businesses who wish to help (in addition to the above) can partner with The Singletons to raise funds, gather donations or spread awareness. There is also an opportunity to be an inaugural donor, by purchasing an inaugural donor brick at our brand new community center, the H.U.B. By purchasing one of our donor bricks, you are breathing life into our building of hope.
Do you have any plans or goals for 2022?
Our goal for 2022 is to serve 100 to 125 families. To provide more meals, support, services, supplies, programming and events to our families, it is essential to expand our donor base and increase the year-over-year budget through community giving and partnerships.
To learn more about The Singletons or to make a donation, visit thesingletonsaz.org.