Tattoos & Scars Saloon and community raise $145,000 for Womankind’s affordable breast health care services in the Florida Keys

Tattoos & Scars Saloon and community raise $145,000 for Womankind’s affordable breast health care services in the Florida Keys 

(Key West, FL). – Florida Keys people know how to bring serious fun to a serious cause, and the recent “Tats for Ta-Tas” Block Party Fundraiser at Tattoos & Scars Saloon on October 16 was no exception. The annual breast health benefit organized by Tattoos & Scars Saloon rallied the community to help raise an impressive $145,000, ensuring Keys women free or affordable access to critical mammograms, screenings, and diagnostic services at Womankind Health Center’s Key West and Marathon locations.

Research shows that when breast cancer is detected early and still localized, the 5-year relative survival rate is about 99%. Early detection through annual mammograms also leads to less intensive treatments, reducing the physical and financial burden of the disease.

Unfortunately, many women forgo this annual appointment due to financial or time constraints.

Thanks to Womankind, in collaboration with Zonta Key West,  hundreds of vouchers for mammograms are given out annually, providing that preventative care critical for early breast cancer detection, improved outcomes,  and successful treatment.

“Tats for Tatas not only brings our community together to raise funds for a very important cause, but also reminds women in the most upbeat way possible about scheduling their breast health check-ups, knowing we’ll help cover the costs,” said Womankind Executive Director Cali Roberts.

Initiated in 2021 by Scars bar owner Casey Vinall and Key Lime Bike Tours owner Maria Gonzalez,  the signature event is held annually during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and embodies the community’s commitment to fun, fundraising, and support for Womankind’s lifesaving work. The two volunteer their time for months leading up to the three-hour event, coordinating with Womankind staff and collecting generous in-kind donations from community business.

In the last three years, the event has raised nearly $250,000 from donated liquor and merchandise sales, staff tips,  body painting, “motorboat booth” ticket sales,  50/50 raffles, individual donations, and an array of silent auction packages from generous in-kind donations from local businesses including hotels stays at Marquesa Hotel, Southernmost Mansion by the Sea, The Rum Bar, and Marrero Guest House, fishing charters, and spa treatments.

“Our team at Womankind can’t thank Casey, Maria,  and everyone who contributed to making this a success enough,” said Roberts.  “Your efforts really do make a huge difference in keeping so many women in our community healthy, and in some cases, alive.”

Tax-deductible donations to the Tats for Tatas fund are ongoing and can be made at @tatsfortatas. For more information on Womankind’s mission, visit womankindkeywest.com or to schedule an appointment, call Womankind at 305-294-4004.

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]