Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is a moment no woman will ever forget.
Michelle Brooks of Allen Park is one of those women, undergoing treatment after her diagnosis last July.
Thanks to Hot Pink Helpers, a Metro Detroit nonprofit, Brooks can take time off work as an EMT and get help with financial challenges.
“My husband and I started Hot Pink Helpers in 2010 with a mission to provide financial and emotional help to people going through the toughest time in their lives,” said Hot Pink Helpers Founder Linda Clogg.
On this day, Hot Pink Helpers gifted Brooks a $5,000 check to help pay her bills.
“If I wouldn’t have been able to receive the money, I probably wouldn’t be getting my treatment because I’d be forced to work,” Brooks said.
The organization began when Clogg’s husband, Bill Clark, co-founder of Hot Pink Helpers, developed Hot Pink Deicer, a product whose proceeds helped families in need.
Over the next decade, the mission grew into a full-fledged nonprofit.
“Every day, people reach out online seeking help with property taxes, gas for treatment, medical bills, and more,” said Hot Pink Helpers Treasurer Kelsey Wulf.
So far this year, Hot Pink Helpers have provided grants to 76 families, and since 2021, they’ve donated more than $1 million, with no plans to slow down.
Their goal was to raise $1 million annually to ensure no one is turned away.
WDIV’s Vice President and General Manager Bob Ellis joined the studio with Hot Pink Helpers members Michelle and Bill to honor the organization as this month’s ‘Go 4 It’ award winner.
“It’s important to help people struggling financially while battling cancer,” Michelle said. “They shouldn’t have to worry about money while fighting for their health.”
Bill added, “We support people emotionally and financially throughout their journey.”
Ellis praised the group’s work, noting how many people don’t know where to turn for help.
“This organization provides both emotional and financial support,” Ellis said. “And it doesn’t hurt that you help with snow, too.”
Hot Pink Helpers is a 100% volunteer-driven organization.
“It’s all about volunteers making a difference in people’s lives,” Bill said. “There’s no greater feeling than knowing you’ve helped someone with cancer.”
Viewers can help by spreading the word and making financial donations. Hot Pink Helpers also works with social workers and hospitals to reach those in need.