Susan G. Komen for the Cure, one of the most prominent breast cancer charities in the United States, announced it would have to forego charity walks in seven cities around the country, according to Reuters. The walks—set in Phoenix, Chicago, Cleveland, Boston, San Francisco, Tampa Bay, and Washington—would have each spanned over the course of three days and would have taken place in 2014.
The non-profit charity posted a message about the cancellations on its Facebook page.
"The difficult decision to exit these markets was not made lightly, as we know this bold and empowering event has touched the lives of thousands of participants like you,” the message read.
A spokeswoman for Komen explained in an email that the three-day walk had taken a downward turn to the tune of 37 percent during the past four years. She did not indicate whether the downturn had to do with the number of people who did the walks or the amount of money the walks raised.
The spokeswoman said the seven cities that were cut did not hit the fundraising marks the charity had set.
According to Reuters, Komen did not confirm specific goals. However, every person that decides to take part in the three-day walks must raise at least $2,300. They also stroll approximately 60 miles during the 72 hours.
Komen was in the news last year after it announced an end to its financial support for Planned Parenthood. (Planned Parenthood is known for its aid in areas such as abortion and birth control.)
This announcement incited complaints from many and turned into a scandal for the company. Following the incident many of Komen’s top officials left their jobs. Even Komen Founder Nancy Brinker, whose sister was Susan G. Komen, stepped down.
Days after making the announcement the company changed its mind and began to support Planned Parenthood once again. The organization agrees with Planned Parenthood’s push to make it easier for women to get breast cancer screenings.
Komen still geared up for seven other locations: Minneapolis-St. Paul, Michigan, Philadelphia, San Diego, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta and Seattle.
