How can I obtain a Necessities Bag?

Necessities Bags are for mastectomy patients only. If you are requesting a bag for yourself and do not live in a community where Necessities is active, contact Necessities directly – email: info@necessitiesbag.org

How can I sponsor a Necessities Bag?

The suggested donation for a Necessities Bag is $50. However, contributions of any amount are truly appreciated.

How do I make a donation?

Click on the Donation for information. Necessities, Inc. is a 50lc(3) charitable organization and your gift is tax deductible according to law. Necessities welcomes in-kind donations of specific supplies. For more information about donating supplies, contact Necessities directly. Email: info@necessitiesbag.org

What about general support of the organization?

Necessities relies solely on donations. Mastectomy patients are given the bag free of charge. Often a recipient will send a check to help another woman. Unrestricted gifts from donors will enable us to grow the Necessities organization and broaden our reach to help more women in small towns and impoverished communities. Donations intended for general support are needed and very much appreciated.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes. Necessities, Inc. is a 50lc(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible. All donations are acknowledged in writing for tax purposes.

How can I sponsor a Necessities Bag for a loved one or friend?

Necessities Bags are for mastectomy patients only. If your loved one does not live in a community where Necessities is active, you can arrange for a bag to be shipped to their surgeon or nurse or directly to the patient. E-mail your request to: info@necessitiesbag.org. Allow two weeks to process a request so that there is enough time for review and questions. We ask for a donation of $75 to cover the cost of the bag and shipping. Donations can be made directly through out website.

Why are Necessities Bags distributed by medical professionals?

Surgeons and nurses understand how important it is to help their patients manage the distress and difficulties associated with recovery from major surgery. The information and supplies offered in the Necessities Bag covers aspects of practical preparation that may be overlooked. Medical professionals who have reviewed and approved the contents can better answer questions related to the surgery and recovery.

How can I personalize my gift to an anonymous recipient?

Sponsors are invited to include a short message or just their first name on a gift card to be placed inside the Necessities Bag. You may never know the woman you helped, but she will have your name to remember. Indicate your wishes when you make your donation. You will NOT be contacted directly by a recipient. Necessities never gives out information about sponsors.

Can I sponsor a bag in honor of a special occasion or in someone’s memory?

Yes. If your gift celebrates a special occasion such as a birthday, we will send a greeting card announcement. If your gift is made in someone’s memory, we will send notification as instructed by the donor. E-mail us your request: info@necessitiesbag.org

How are corporate or business sponsors recognized?

Company logos are not printed on the outside of the bag to maintain the understated and simple presentation. Sponsors are always acknowledged on the website. Necessities will make every effort to work with a sponsor on a case to case basis. E-mail for more details: info@necessitiesbag.org

Who Benefits from the Necessities Bag program?

Mastectomy patients

  • Surgeons, nurses, and counselors have access to a valuable patient resource

  • Caregivers

  • Survivors assembling Necessities Bags find the activity aids recovery

  • Hospital community outreach programs

  • Volunteer Groups eager to help support women with breast cancer

  • Donors who want to have an immediate and personal impact on a breast cancer patient’s recovery

  • Sponsors who wish to have their company/business associated with a unique outreach

How can I start a program in my community?

Affiliate start-up requires the involvement of the medical community as well as an established group with the ability to provide funding and volunteers to handle assembly and delivery to medical offices. Contact Necessities for more details.

How do I contact Necessities?

The national office of Necessities is located in Ridgefield, Connecticut.
Email: info@necessitiesbag.org