ST. JOSEPH — After a year and a half of planning, members of the Berrien County Cancer Services had the opportunity to celebrate their new office location Dec. 11 with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

After commemorating the occasion, Nancy Church, the president and CEO of Berrien County Cancer Services, said she felt excited to have an office that will be more visible to cancer patients who need care.

“We are looking forward to being able to serve people in a better more comprehensive manner so that there are less steps for them to take to get the care they need,” Church said.

The nonprofit organization moved from its Stevensville location Sept. 14 to the second floor of the Marie Yeager Cancer Center, 3900 Hollywood Road in St. Joseph.

Church said the nonprofit chose to move for a “synergistic” opportunity. With the office located inside the Marie Yeager Cancer Center building, it will be more accessible to cancer patients. 

“Ever since they built the Marie Yeager Cancer Center, Lakeland has wanted us to have a presence here,” Church said. “A lot of our patients are currently going through cancer treatments and they wanted that access for the patients.”

Since 1948, the Berrien County Cancer Services has provided support and care services to cancer patients across Berrien County and all Niles addresses. Through the organization, those battling cancer get free in-home nurse care, in addition to the loan closet. A boutique also provides wigs and other beauty items with an effort to help cancer patients look and feel confident.

Berrien County Cancer Services is well-known for its services in Niles and Buchanan, including a Day of Caring, where the nonprofit works with local organizations to connect volunteers with cancer patients who need help around their home.

Throughout 2018, Church said Berrien County Cancer Services has seen a 20-percent increase in patient referrals for in-home care. She said she believes some of that increase is due to excitement about the move helping to spread the word about the organization.

Church said the Berrien County Cancer Services remains an independent nonprofit, with the same services, staff and phone number. Hours will be shorter on Fridays, with the nonprofit closing at 2 p.m. instead of 4 p.m., due to low traffic in the afternoon. Hours from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday will remain the same.

Those interested in learning more about the Berrien County Cancer Services can visit bccancerservice.org. Church advised any patients who need help finding the new location to call the organization at (269) 429-3281.