This weekend 3,500 women and men walked the streets of New York City in the final leg of Avon 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer. During the two-day event, participants from 48 states raised $8.7 million in support of breast cancer research and services.
Avon 39 New York was the last of seven walks held from April to October in cities across the U.S. Formerly known as the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, Avon 39 refers to the 39.3 miles—split into marathon and half-marathon distances—that participants cover throughout the weekend.
The New York walk concluded at Pier 84, where Avon CEO Sheri McCoy congratulated the participants, dubbed 39ers, and presented grants to 10 local organizations. Also on hand was Avon Global Brand Ambassador Fergie, who launched her latest Avon fragrance, Outspoken Party!, at a livestreamed Beauty for a Purpose event held Monday.
“As this year’s Avon 39 series comes to a close in New York, we couldn’t be more grateful for all 3,500 39ers that united together throughout this memorable weekend with one common goal: to eliminate breast cancer,” McCoy told the crowd. “The grants distributed today will help us do just that. I’m honored to have the opportunity to give them to the doctors, researchers and other medical professionals who will use these funds to help change and save lives.”
The Avon Foundation for Women selects local breast cancer organizations to receive Avon 39 funds at the close of each walk. To be eligible, organizations must commit to providing their services to all, regardless of insurance status, demographic background or ability to pay. Since Avon introduced the walks in 2003, participants have raised approximately $590 million to fund breast cancer research and education, as well as assistance for families battling the disease.
