HUGS offers help
This nonprofit’s annual fundraiser supports cancer patients in Marion County.
Robert Batsel, Paula Batsel, honoree Whitney Batsel Griffith and Casey Griffith, pose together during the HUGS Charities fundraiser event at the Ocala Downtown Market on Feb. 26, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
HUGS Charities of Ocala is a nonprofit organization that raises funds throughout the year with events and individual donations. HUGS hosts a signature fundraiser every year and its 16th annual event took place on Feb. 26 at the Ocala Downtown Market.
This year’s honorees were the College of Central Florida Nursing Program and cancer survivor and oncology nurse Whitney Batsel Griffith, who shared inspiring, heartfelt and humorous words about her cancer journey with the crowd of more than 350 attendees.
“HUGS Charities of Ocala is celebrating another victory in the fight against cancer as this event raised more than $100,000,” the news release noted.
Proceeds from the event will help local cancer patients with expenses like rent, mortgage and utility payments, groceries, transportation to doctor’s appointments, insurance and more.
“I am so proud of our HUGS Charities team and the heart, time and passion that went into making this event so special,” said Audrey Peek McGuinness, president of the HUGS board, in the release. “Seeing our community — friends, family, supporters and volunteers — come together in such a powerful way was truly moving.”
McGuinness said the organization offers special thanks to the event’s community partner, Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute, and to presenting sponsors Koontz Furniture and Design and Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for every person who showed up, gave, encouraged and believed in this mission,” she said. “Because of you, lives will be impacted in ways that matter.”
The HUGS Patient Assistance Program helps patients with living expenses during their treatment for cancer. In 2025, HUGS distributed $111,000 to cancer patients living in Marion County who applied for assistance. This included $35,258 for rent/mortgage, $28,250 for groceries, $26,565 for gas, $11,475 for utilities and more.
To learn more, go to hugscharities.org
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