When Melissa Garcia joined Allegacy Federal Credit Union, she never expected her personal story to inspire broader support for women in need of breast cancer care. But as a young mother and two-time breast cancer survivor, Melissa quickly found purpose in sharing her experience and connecting others to life-saving services.

In October 2025, Melissa participated in Tickled Pink, a fashion show that supports Atrium Health patients and families in Union and surrounding counties in accessing breast cancer care. That commitment continued this spring when she joined colleagues at a Project PINK Union screening day, sponsored by Allegacy and hosted at its Indian Trail location.

Administered by Atrium Health Levine Cancer and Charlotte Radiology, the program helps underinsured and uninsured women receive free breast cancer screenings along with follow-up care, transportation assistance, breast health education, and other resources designed to remove barriers that too often delay diagnosis and treatment. For many participants, Project PINK provides more than a mammogram — it opens the door to care that may otherwise feel out of reach.

Melissa Garcia (right), with De’Asia Jones and Niah Owens, attended the Project PINK screening event hosted by Allegacy Federal Credit Union in Indian Trail, N.C. on March 18, 2026.

“We are grateful for community partners like Allegacy whose generosity strengthens this program,” said Denise White, president of Atrium Health Union. “Their support, along with the free mammograms and compassionate care Atrium Health provides to community members, truly saves lives. Because of Allegacy’s investment, we can reach women who might otherwise go without critical screenings and the follow-up support needed during treatment.”

That long-term investment has been significant. According to Lori Timm, director of community impact and development for Allegacy, the organization has contributed more than $1.5 million to cancer support services and screenings while also encouraging employees to volunteer, participate in events, and share their own stories. “The funds and time we have dedicated fit perfectly with Allegacy’s understanding of the connection between financial, physical, and mental health — it all makes sense, and all the parts go together,” Lori shared.

Thanks to donors like Allegacy, Project PINK continues to create a ripple effect — helping more women access screenings earlier, connect to treatment sooner, and move forward with the support they need.