JFCS ramps up cancer programs with SMH partnership

Services for cancer patients, survivors and those affected by the disease will expand further in Sarasota County Monday.

About a year-and-a-half after Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast took over cancer services from the shuttered Center for Building Hope, the organization is bolstering its offerings through a partnership with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System. The organizations will provide free wellness and exercise programs, such as yoga, tai chi and meditation, at Sarasota Memorial’s HealthFit center.

“We’ve been talking about this since last summer,” said SMH COO Lorrie Liang at press event Thursday.

JFCS is providing funding for supplies and  the oncology programs, while Sarasota Memorial will oversee the the facility and operations.

“I think we were always meant to be collaborators,” said JFCS CEO Heidi Brown, who took over at the head of the organization Feb. 1 following the retirement of former CEO Rose Chapman. Brown in starting her position said she would focus on growing collaborative community partnerships.

HealthFit is located at 5880 Rand Blvd. skirting Clark Road less than a mile from I-75.

Here is a rundown of when each program is offered:

• Oncology yoga — 1:30 p.m. Monday, weekly
• Oncology tai chi — 12:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, weekly
• Mindful meditation — 12:30 p.m. Monday, weekly
• Oncology recovery exercise — 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, weekly