Cancer Support Virgin Islands is marking two milestones this October: its 12th annual Pinktober campaign and the organization’s 20th year of service in the territory. The nonprofit, founded in 2005, has provided more than $6 million in financial assistance to over 4,800 cancer patients and their families across the Virgin Islands.
“Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither can we,” said CSVI Director Barb Michaud. “For 20 years, our communities have rallied around cancer warriors, ensuring they are never alone in their journey. Pinktober is both a celebration of that legacy and a call to action for the future.”
The campaign, which began in 2013, has become a fixture of the Virgin Islands’ community calendar, engaging schools, businesses, churches, and civic groups in fundraising and awareness efforts. This year, CSVI has set a fundraising goal of more than $900,000 to sustain and expand patient support services. Every dollar raised remains in the Virgin Islands, directly funding grants that cover medical treatments, travel, and essential living expenses for those battling cancer.
Throughout October, Pinktober events will span the territory, ranging from pink drink specials and themed brunches to pickleball tournaments, volleyball games, and pumpkin carving contests. Workplaces and schools will also take part through small fundraisers and awareness campaigns. The popular “Give Cancer the Boot” initiative, which encourages groups and individuals to collect donations in symbolic pink boots, returns as a central feature of this year’s drive.
Michaud noted that CSVI’s longevity is rooted in its partnerships. “The strength of Pinktober has always come from the willingness of neighbors to step up — whether by hosting an event, buying a pin, or making a donation,” she said. “That community spirit has carried us through two decades of service.”
The launch of Pinktober also serves as a reminder of how deeply cancer has touched the territory. By pairing public education with tangible financial support, CSVI has worked to ease burdens for patients and their families, while also promoting broader conversations about prevention, treatment, and resilience.
A full calendar of events and ways to contribute can be found at www.cancersupportvi.org.
St. Croix Source
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