In a profound step towards reducing cancer health disparities in underserved communities, The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation (RLCF) has bestowed an invaluable grant upon the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center at Keck Medicine of USC. This transformative act of philanthropy is set to give rise to the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention, a beacon of hope and healing in the heart of Los Angeles. This remarkable initiative comes as part of the RLCF’s $25 million commitment to bridge the gap in cancer care access for vulnerable populations.
The forthcoming Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention, slated to open its doors in the spring, signifies a major leap forward in the fight against cancer inequalities.
Named the first cancer center in California to be graced by the RLCF’s generous award, the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center is poised to pioneer change in the field of cancer prevention and care.
USC President Carol L. Folt articulated the university’s profound gratitude, stating, “We’re honored that our USC Norris cancer center is the first named cancer center in California to be selected for this generous and transformational award.” The center’s mission, a harmony with USC’s commitment to accessible and equitable healthcare, aims to break down the barriers that have historically hindered individuals from receiving cancer treatment. This award not only stands as a testament to Ralph Lauren’s vision but also aligns seamlessly with USC’s ambitious goal of transforming USC Health Science.
Steven Shapiro, USC’s Senior Vice President for Health Affairs, emphasized the critical timing of this grant in the fight to eliminate cancer health disparities. The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention is set to play a pivotal role in the USC Norris cancer center’s long history of championing health equity in cancer screening, treatment, and prevention within its neighboring communities. This ambitious project represents a true commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, receives the cancer care they deserve.
The trailblazing Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention in Los Angeles joins esteemed predecessors in this noble mission. The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center in Washington, D.C., which opened its doors in April, and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Ralph Lauren Center in Harlem, New York, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, are both beneficiaries of RLCF’s funding. These institutions have made it their mission to address cancer health disparities within their surrounding communities and improve access to quality preventative care and treatment.
Ralph Lauren, the iconic executive chairman and chief creative officer of Ralph Lauren Corp and chair of The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation, has been unwavering in his commitment to the battle against cancer for over 30 years. His dedication shines through in his heartfelt words: “We have made great progress since I made a commitment to the fight against cancer more than 30 years ago but there is more to do, and we will continue expanding our efforts to make meaningful change for patients, their families, and communities.”
In a significant sweep across the nation, from New York to Washington, and now Los Angeles, Ralph Lauren and The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation are unceasing in their endeavor to minimize disparities in healthcare. By extending access to high-quality preventative care and treatment, they are, in essence, making a genuine difference in the lives of those who have been medically underserved. The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, strategically located at the heart of the community, is poised to be an instrumental force in reaching those who need support the most.
The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention at USC Norris represents not only a beacon of hope but a transformative force, promising to level the playing field in the battle against cancer health disparities. It is a poignant reminder that, when industry leaders and philanthropists join forces, they have the power to heal, uplift, and make meaningful change in the lives of those who need it most.