| SMMC Family Comes Together for Haitian Relief |
YORK COUNTY, ME - The overwhelming devastation experienced by the citizens of Haiti is almost beyond belief. As with many other organizations, the Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) family was motivated to find ways to help. A group of employees took the lead in forming a plan of action for the entire organization which included donations of money and items.
During the months of January and February, SMMC collected cash donations and offered employees the option of payroll deduction and earned time (vacation time) cash-in for gifts to the American Red Cross or Doctors Without Borders Haitian Relief. The staff donated $7,015 ($2,490 to the American Red Cross and $4,525 to Doctors Without Borders). In addition to the cash donations, a five-day collection drive was held to gather medical supplies, equipment and personal care items, which yielded 45 boxes and 28 large bags to be distributed to Konbit Sante in Portland for delivery directly to Haiti. SMMC directly contributed seven fully-functional, hydraulic stretchers, three large medical supply storage cabinets/carts and an ECG Unit.
In writing to SMMC employees, Edward J. McGeachey, president and CEO, noted, "The images of so many children and adults injured, with little or no medical care available; the dangerous lack of water and food; the total destruction of thousands of homes; and the astonishing loss of life leave many of us seeking a way to join with others to offer some form of help. Individually and together we can make a real difference in the lives of people who have so little and need so much. Thank you for your compassion, one of SMMC’s distinguishing values.”
SMMC will continue to monitor the state’s emergency response actions and update staff of any other opportunities to help as they arise.
Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) is a national award-winning medical center offering excellent clinical care that is also compassionate and attentive to each patient's individual needs. In conjunction with a medical staff of over 200 highly-skilled physicians, SMMC offers Maine's newest state-of-the-art emergency and fast track care as well as a full range of inpatient and outpatient services at its 150-bed acute care medical center located just off Exit 32 of I-95 in Biddeford. Additionally, SMMC's physician services offer high quality medical care at physician offices located in Biddeford, Kennebunk, Old Orchard Beach and Saco; a full range of outpatient services at its diagnostic and therapy centers in Saco, Kennebunk, and Biddeford. SMMC also offers superior home nursing care through affiliate SMMC Visiting Nurses. SMMC is Joint Commission accredited, state-licensed, and a member of MaineHealth. To find a physician associated with SMMC, go to www.smmc.org/medstaff. |
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