USPS is marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month by highlighting its semipostal research stamp, which has raised $80.9 million since it was issued in 1998.
The Postal Service is featuring the stamp on usps.com and social media. Facilities also are hosting events to raise awareness of breast cancer.
“Our employees … are all people who know someone that has been affected,” Plainfield, IL, Postmaster Ronald Kintzler told The Herald-News last week.
The Plainfield Post Office recently hosted an event where customers purchased the stamp and received information about breast cancer.
Similar events are being held at plants, including the Chicago Surface Metro Hub, which honored employees who’ve survived the disease.
The National Cancer Institute receives 70 percent of Breast Cancer Research stamp proceeds. The money funds research to detect and treat the disease, which is the second leading cause of cancer death among women.
“Breast cancer research has benefited from [this] innovative funding source,” the institute reported earlier this year. The funding has been used for genetic and molecular biology research that could lead to more effective treatments, the report states.
Olga Korbonska, a Plainfield customer, said she appreciates the Postal Service’s efforts.
“I think it’s important to spread awareness,” Korbonska said.
