Can Assist Bathurst has supported people undergoing treatment for cancer for the last 25 years, but now the group is looking for help.

With rising medical costs, the number of claims to the charity have spiked in recent times.

Last year alone, Can Assist provided $38,400 to help cover costs associated with treatment for people living in the Bathurst region.

“There’s more calls for help than what we can provide,” Can Assist member Barbara Piddington said.

Can Assist’s Genevieve Croaker said for some people the cost of seeking cancer treatment is prohibitive.

“Some decide not to have treatment because of the cost … it is very, very heartbreaking,” she said.

To make a donation or become a Can Assist member call Barbara Piddington on 6332 1036 or Genevieve Croaker on 6331 1601.

“We rely totally on our local community for donations and fundraising to continue our work,” they said.