The women of Latinas Contra Cancer do the kind of work that rarely makes headlines, yet changes entire lives: they walk alongside people facing cancer when the system feels cold, confusing, or impossible to access. They confront the real-world barriers that force families to choose between care and survival—language, lost wages, lack of insurance, immigration-related fear, and the daily weight of inequity—by making sure patients are seen, heard, and supported with culturally rooted care and unwavering dignity.
What makes their work extraordinary is how practical and personal it is at the same time. Their patient navigators, promotoras, advocates, and community health workers help schedule appointments and follow-ups, coordinate transportation, connect people to interpretation, and guide families to free or low-cost care and social services—while also building community through support groups and survivorship resources. They are not just helping someone “get through” cancer; they are helping families reclaim power in a healthcare system that too often overlooks them, and pushing toward a future where health is treated as a right.
The compassion and grace they extend to their patients is reflected in the grace shown by their extraordinary mix of funders
Latinas Contra Cancer is funded mostly by donations and grants—roughly 98% of its revenue comes from contributions (as reported in its public charity filings). In practical terms, that money tends to come from a few main places: individual donors, foundations and community philanthropies, healthcare partners (health systems, hospitals, and cancer centers), and corporate supporters including biotech/pharma—with occasional local public-sector/community grant support as well.
The support that LCC provides its employees is a strong example of what’s possible when an organization prioritizes worker well-being and actively supports the job security, protections, and benefits that come with union representation.
“Joining the Teamsters was an important step for Latinas Contra Cancer because our mission is rooted in advocacy for our patients, our community, and our team.” Said Jessica Diangson, Director of Operations & Finance. “Strengthening our workplace ensures our staff can thrive and feel supported in the work they do every day. Union representation for LCC provides stability and a collective voice, ensuring we can continue delivering compassionate, high‑quality support when it’s needed most.”
“Latinas Contra Cancer (LCC) is a group of members unlike any in other Local 853’s membership. Guiding people through cancer is a critical and tough job. Local 853 will be there in the years to come for our members at LCC and to make sure the organization thrives. We are proud that the objective of a first contract has been achieved.” Said Teamster 853 Recording Secretary Mike Henneberry
These new members approved a three-year agreement that includes a pension and Teamsters health care. The vote was unanimous.
“I’m excited to welcome them to Teamsters Local 853,” said Teamsters Local 853 President Steven Lua at a recent meeting. “But even more importantly, I’m excited to support the work they do. Their mission is meaningful and valuable, and it inspires me personally to keep working hard for those who need it most. They are a very welcome group to our Teamster family.”
Statement by Teamsters Local 853 Secretary Treasurer, Steve Beck
Teamsters Local 853 is dedicated to enriching the lives of these members and honoring their unique role within our union. They are the ones who take care of our mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers in a way that is hard to replace. We will continue to ensure these workers thrive by securing the support and protections they need to keep doing their essential work.
Learn about their special work on their website here: https://www.latinascontracancer.org/
