Approximately four in 10 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society, and nearly three in four people with cancer worry about how they will pay for treatment and manage everyday expenses. The Taylor County Good Samaritans provide financial support to residents undergoing treatment, helping families focus on healing instead of worrying about rent, utilities or travel costs.
The nonprofit organization helps patients cover necessities such as groceries, gas and lodging. Founded in response to a growing local need, it has quietly become a lifeline for dozens of families each year.
For families navigating the stress of cancer, the Good Samaritans offer a safety net that goes beyond medical care. Jennifer Van Mersbergen, a member and advocate, highlighted the human side of the organization’s work.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that people who need help have somehow failed or made poor choices,” Mersbergen said. “In reality, many of the individuals we assist are hardworking community members who suddenly find themselves overwhelmed by medical costs and lost income. Illness does not discriminate, and needing help is not a weakness—it is a human reality.”
She also described the importance of partnerships in connecting residents with resources quickly.
“Although anyone can apply online, we work closely with healthcare providers, clinics and social workers who help identify individuals who may benefit from our assistance,” Mersbergen said. “These partnerships ensure that support is provided appropriately and ethically, and that patients receive help in a timely manner.”
Lateshia Johnson, secretary and advocate, has witnessed the Good Samaritans’ impact firsthand, especially as the organization’s reach has grown. Johnson noted that each year since 2017, 37 to 65 people have benefited from the Good Samaritans’ services. Furthermore, she also explained the practical benefits of the financial support for patients.
“Once awarded the money, the patient is free to spend the monetary gift of $300 on groceries, gas, hotel rooms and anything else to ease the burden through cancer treatment,” Johnson said.
For families like Dr. Amanda Ewing’s, the Good Samaritans made a tangible difference.
“The grant was definitely helpful,” Ewing said. “My mom and her husband have always been frugal savers, but cancer treatment is expensive. She also received most of her treatment in Louisville, so travel expenses add up quickly.”
After seeing the support her mother received, Ewing compared the heart of the nonprofit to a well-known biblical principle.
“It’s a group of local people who embody loving your neighbor,” Ewing said.
Dr. Eugene H. Shively, president of the board, said the Good Samaritans help patients navigate the financial and emotional challenges of treatment, complementing the care provided by Taylor Regional Hospital.
“Having a diagnosis of cancer is a very frightening experience and a very stressful experience also associated with many financial strains,” Shively said. “The Taylor County Good Samaritans try to provide a small amount of money to those patients in need to try to get them through some of these difficult times.”
He also noted that receiving care close to home eases stress and helps patients stay on track with their treatment.
“Taylor Regional Hospital was one of the first rural hospitals in the state to bridge the disparity of care between rural and urban cancer treatment,” Shively said. “We can provide first-class treatment for cancer patients right here at home.”
For Rachael Thompson, marketing and public relations director, the Good Samaritans’ impact extends beyond money to community support and reassurance.
“This is for everyone,” Thompson said. “If you are currently undergoing treatment, you qualify. No stigma, no judgement—just a lending hand.”
She emphasized the organization’s focus on walking alongside patients throughout their treatment journey.
“We want Taylor County cancer patients to know they are not walking this journey alone,” Thompson said. “We support them, we see them, we hear them and we want to stand beside them on their fight.”
As requests for assistance continue to grow, the Taylor County Good Samaritans rely on volunteers, fundraising and community donations to sustain their mission. By helping families meet immediate needs, the nonprofit ensures that residents facing cancer can focus on recovering and treatment, proving that in Taylor County, a compassionate community can create a lasting impact.
Those interested in supporting the organization can donate, volunteer or learn more by visiting their website at www.taylorcountygoodsamaritans.com, emailing [email protected] or mailing contributions to Taylor County Good Samaritans, P.O. Box 81, Campbellsville, Kentucky 42719.
