Local Donation Provides Comfort and Choice for Cancer Patients

Locally owned Choucas Hats, a business specializing in the production of unique active head- and neckwear, has donated 40 hats to the Alpena Cancer Center. Present for the donation were, pictured left to right:  Jennifer Schuch, social worker, Alpena Cancer Center; Kayla Kendziorski, supervisor, Radiation Oncology; Maren Winter, owner, Choucas Hats; Ann Diamond, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation; and Matt Ritthaler, R.N, manager, Alpena Cancer Center.

Locally owned Choucas Hats, a business specializing in the production of unique active head- and neckwear, has donated 40 hats to the Alpena Cancer Center. The delivery was made by business owner and creative director Maren Winter, who brought a wide selection of styles, sizes, and colors to ensure local cancer patients have options that meet their individual needs.

The donation was received by Jennifer Schuch, social worker, Alpena Cancer Center. “Last year, patients loved the Choucas hats Maren brought in. We’re so excited to receive more this year,” said Schuch. “Being able to offer these unique hats in different sizes and fabric options is very helpful. Cancer patients need hats that stay on but aren’t too tight. Some prefer a soft, silky texture, while other’s find something fleecier less stimulating and warmer. Maren’s gift is not only very generous but extremely thoughtful also.”

Ann Diamond, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation, shared Schuch’s enthusiasm, saying, “I’m truly grateful for Maren’s support of our Cancer Center patients. Her gift makes a significant difference to our patients and is so considerate of their needs. It’s wonderful to see Maren, a young business-owner, care for her community and give back in such a selfless way.”

Winter shared that the decision to donate her products stems from feedback she has received from individuals with sensitive skin, including those with alopecia and patients undergoing cancer treatment.
“I’ve heard from many people that Choucas hats work really well for their needs,” said Winter. “So, I wanted to make sure the Alpena Cancer Center was able to provide patients with hats. Part of my business and personal philosophy is to keep things as local as possible, and that includes making such donations.”

In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Winter has been taking steps to bring the production of Choucas Hats from New Hampshire to Alpena. “We pride ourselves on our American-made products and are working to move even more of our operations to Alpena. It’s good for the community and just feels right,” Winter said.

Since purchasing the company in 2022 from its original New Hampshire owners, Winter has expanded the brand with new designs and recently opened a winter popup at Water Street Commons. Choucas Hats are also available locally at Colburn Outfitters and Harborside Cycle.

The ongoing partnership between Choucas Hats and the Alpena Cancer Center highlights the powerful impact of local businesses supporting their community. Through thoughtful donations, encouraging local investments, and a commitment to meeting the needs of the community, specifically those in need, Winter and her company continue to demonstrate how small businesses can make a meaningful difference close to home.

Those interested in more information on Choucas Hats or to purchase Choucas head- or neckware may visit www.choucashats.com. Those interested in more information on how to make a donation to the Alpena Cancer Center or support cancer care at MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena may contact Diamond at ann.diamond@mymichigan.org or (989) 356-7738.