History

Supporting cancer patients at every stage of treatment.

The Origins of 1 in 9

In the late 1980s, the U.S. Health Department uncovered a startling statistic: women on Long Island faced a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer. Alarmingly, one in nine women were projected to be diagnosed with some form of cancer. Motivated by this revelation, a group of determined women came together on November 27, 1990, to form an organization dedicated to understanding and combating this crisis. This group became known as 1 in 9.

Their first major initiative was advocating for a comprehensive environmental study to identify potential causes of the elevated cancer rates. This effort led to the inception of the Long Island Breast Cancer Project, which not only raised public awareness but also influenced legislation aimed at supporting cancer patients and protecting residents from harmful environmental factors.

Establishment of Hewlett House

Building on the momentum of 1 in 9, Hewlett House opened its doors in 2000 as a community learning resource center for cancer patients and their families. Recognizing the profound impact of human connection during such challenging times, Hewlett House was designed to be a safe haven where individuals could gather, share experiences, and find solace.

For over 28 years, our dedicated staff has been serving the local community, assisting tens of thousands of cancer patients and their families. We facilitate open discussions that help individuals come to terms with their diagnoses and treatment options, all within a comfortable and confidential setting that strictly adheres to HIPAA privacy standards.

Our Historic Home

Hewlett House is more than just a resource center; it's a piece of Long Island's rich history. The building we occupy is the Hewlett Homestead, constructed around 1740 by descendants of George Hewlett, one of the first members of the Hewlett family on Long Island. This historic home, still situated on its original site, showcases architectural features characteristic of Dutch colonial influence and is one of the few remaining examples on the island.

Listed on the 1936 Historic American Buildings Survey and recognized for its significance on the National Register of Historic Places, the homestead was bequeathed to the Hewlett-Woodmere School District by the late Ceresies Hewlett in 1974. In the late 1990s, Nassau County acquired and restored the building. Today, we are honored to continue its legacy by housing our organization within its walls.

Community Support and Our Mission

Hewlett House relies on the generosity of our supporters and local communities to continue our mission. This support allows us to focus wholly on providing accurate information, compassionate support, and a network of hope for those affected by cancer.

At Hewlett House, we remain committed to fostering human connection, advocating for awareness, and offering unwavering support to cancer patients and their families. Our history is a testament to the power of community and the enduring impact of collective action.