GONZALES, La. – In support of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s Invest in Ascension campaign, the Gonzales Area Foundation (GAF) announced a gift of $625,000 that will go toward the Cancer Center’s expansion of its Gonzales location. Culminating at its annual gala held on March 29 at the Price LeBlanc PACE Center in Gonzales, all proceeds will stay in Ascension Parish and directly benefit the local community.
In 2024, Mary Bird Perkins embarked on a $2.5 million fundraising initiative focused on expanding and enhancing infusion and support services. After initially committing $500,000 to the project, GAF—thanks to the generosity of the community —surpassed its fundraising goal.
Since its founding in 2015, GAF has raised nearly $2 million for the Cancer Center and has served as one of its most steadfast partners. While the Foundation’s annual gala has long been a major source of philanthropy, GAF will shift its focus next year to new, more impactful ways of contributing to the Cancer Center. Details on exciting opportunities to create transformative impact—and get more involved in the fight against cancer—will be announced soon.
“Our community is continuing to grow and with that growth comes a greater need for high-quality healthcare services, especially cancer care,” said DeEtte DeArmond, founding member of the Gonzales Area Foundation. “And we couldn’t ask for a better partner than Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. It gives us great joy to contribute to the Invest in Ascension initiative and position our community for a healthy future.”
Located at 1104 W. Highway 30, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Gonzales has served the surrounding community since 2009. Throughout that time, Ascension Parish residents have benefited from local access to high-quality treatments, advanced technology, diagnostic imaging and essential support services.
Through the Invest in Ascension campaign, the Cancer Center is expanding to meet the needs of a growing community. The 6,000-square-foot addition will feature a 2,500-square-foot infusion suite, state-of-the-art lab, retail pharmacy, new exam rooms and more. Patients will also gain access to enhanced programs and resources, including a patient navigator, dietician, palliative care specialists and clinical trials. The expansion will triple the Center’s capacity, allowing it to serve up to 300 patients each month.
The upgraded facility is set to open this fall. GAF, along with local industry leaders and the wider Ascension Parish community, hope their meaningful investment inspires others to join them in investing in championing this expansion campaign.
To learn more about Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Gonzales and the Invest in Ascension campaign, visit marybird.org/investinascension.