Third annual Pink Party returns with a “Boots on the Ground” theme on Oct. 1; appointments are open now for no-cost mammograms with the Buddy Bus on Oct. 15

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. (Sept. 16, 2025) – The third annual Pink Party returns to Center of Hope at Emmett Reed on Wednesday, Oct. 1, with a “Boots on the Ground” theme for 2025. This high-energy event invites the community to take a stand for breast cancer awareness and prevention while celebrating survivors and expert knowledge. Guests are encouraged to show off their favorite boots and wear pink as a symbol of solidarity.

The Pink Party will feature music, free food, trivia and prizes, plus giveaways and more. Octavius Davis, co-host of Front Page Jacksonville on Hot 106.5, will emcee the evening, while anchor and advocate Jeannie Blaylock returns as part of the panel. Breast cancer experts and survivors will share their testimonials and tips on how to survive, thrive and stand up to breast cancer. Organizers at Center of Hope say the vibrant vibe sparks meaningful conversations and encourages residents to engage with preventive care. Plus, the first 50 attendees will receive custom swag bags, fans and be entered into a drawing for $50 gift cards courtesy of the Center of Hope.

Later in the month, the Buddy Bus mobile mammography unit will be on-site at Emmett Reed Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for scheduled mammogram appointments. The Buddy Bus and regular mammograms continue to play a crucial role in detecting breast cancer early and providing the best possible health outcomes. For many, screenings will be no-cost with their insurance; some clients may be eligible for coverage with the Pink Ribbon Campaign. For more information, including guidance on eligibility to have your mammogram with the Buddy Bus and how to register for your appointment, go to https://bit.ly/COHbuddybus2025 — Baptist Health will contact you to confirm your information and appointment. The Buddy Bus cannot accept walk-up appointments at this time.

For more information about Pink Party and other Center of Hope community events, go to CenterofHopeFL.org, call 904-265-6787, or email CenterofHope@fssnf.org.

About the Center of Hope
Center of Hope is a community collaboration operated by Family Support Services. The Center’s focus is to promote positive outcomes of safety and well-being for all children and families in our community’s most vulnerable areas, with a focus on the 32209 ZIP code, through the development and delivery of comprehensive services and supports. For more information about the Center of Hope, go to CenterofHopeFL.org. For more information about Family Support Services of Duval & Nassau Counties, go to www.familysupport.org.