Grateful Friends Privacy Policy

Effective Date: February 6, 2026

 

At Grateful Friends, your privacy and trust are important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect information you provide through our website (gratefulfriends.org) and related services.

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1. Information We Collect

We collect information you voluntarily provide, such as:

• Contact details (name, email, phone, address)

• Information submitted through forms (contact, volunteer, program applications)

• Donation information (when you give through our payment processors)

• Communication preferences

• Usage data collected automatically when you visit our website (cookies/analytics)

 

Important: We do not require medical information beyond what you choose to provide voluntarily. All program information is shared by you or your caregiver/social worker on your own initiative.​

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2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Respond to inquiries

• Process donations and send receipts

• Review volunteer and program applications

• Communicate about events, news, and updates

• Improve our website and services

 

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties.

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3. Third-Party Services

Grateful Friends uses trusted third-party providers to help us operate our website, process donations, and communicate with supporters.

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• Website & Hosting: Our website is hosted on Wix, which securely stores form submissions and content.

• Donations & Transactions: Online donations and event registrations are processed through b, PayPal, Venmo, and Square. Purchases through our Amazon Wishlist are processed by Amazon. We do not store your payment information.

• Communications & Media: We use email platforms (e.g., Constant Contact), embedded calendars, and YouTube for newsletters, event announcements, and educational content.

• Analytics & Cookies: We use basic analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and Bing Webmaster Tools) to understand website usage. Data is collected in aggregate and does not personally identify you.

 

Grateful Friends does not control the privacy or security practices of these third-party providers. Your payment and personal information are processed directly by them according to their own policies, and full credit card or bank details are never stored on our servers. We encourage you to review each provider’s privacy policy to understand how your information is collected, used, and protected.​

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4. Cookies & Website Analytics

We use cookies and similar technologies to support basic site functionality and understand how visitors use our site. This data is collected in aggregate and does not personally identify you. We do not use targeted advertising or retargeting.

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5. Data Storage and Security

• Program and volunteer applications may be stored in Wix, DonorPerfect, or Microsoft OneDrive.

• Information may be shared internally with staff or volunteers only as needed to fulfill your requests or provide services.

• Only authorized staff will have access to program applications.

• We implement technical, administrative, and physical safeguards to protect your information.

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6. Volunteer, Program, and Medical Applications Privacy Disclaimer

Some forms (such as volunteer or program assistance) may require sensitive or financial documentation that you voluntarily provide.

• Applications may be submitted by patients, caregivers, or social workers.

• Supporting documentation (e.g., bills for assistance) may be required for program participation.

• Only authorized staff will access program applications.

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Grateful Friends only collects medical or financial information that you voluntarily provide. We are not healthcare providers and do not require medical documentation beyond what you choose to share. Information provided is used solely to administer programs and support services.

 

Program eligibility is intended for adults with cancer residing in Essex and Middlesex counties, Massachusetts; submitting a form does not guarantee program participation.

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7. Communications & Opt‑Out

• You may opt out of newsletters or fundraising emails at any time using the unsubscribe link in each email.

• You may request access, corrections, or deletion of your personal information by contacting us at info@gratefulfriends.org.

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8. Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under age 13. If we learn that information from a child under 13 has been collected, we will take steps to delete it.

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9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

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10. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, contact:

 

Grateful Friends
Email: info@gratefulfriends.org
Phone: (978) 717‑5116
Mail: P.O. Box 119, Beverly, MA 01915