Local Couple Makes Extraordinary Gift

• March 31, 2020
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MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
March 31, 2020

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY- The evolving situation of COVID-19 is unlike one we’ve seen before, but what is not unusual is the way Northumberland County has rallied together as a community. In addition to businesses stepping in to donate personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers, generous offers of supplies from those able to give, and messages of support flooding the online and physical worlds, one local couple has stepped up in a big way with a significant financial gift to Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH).

This local couple, who wish to remain anonymous, had long included a significant gift to NHH in their future charitable plans, but after speaking to a family member who serves on the frontlines at NHH, decided now was the time to act. They contacted the NHH Foundation to offer their entire planned donation, starting with an immediate gift of $100,000.

“We in Northumberland County are blessed to have this state-of-the-art-facility and its wonderful staff,” shares the couple.  “The staff are brave heroes that are taking yet to be determined risks dealing with this pandemic.  We wanted to assist these heroes and this fine institution.”

Currently, NHH is working to create a specialized pandemic unit that will require hospital beds, medical equipment and supplies.  The creation of this unit will become the priority for these initial funds.

“Donations like this send such a strong message of support to our frontline staff, who continue to care for our community,” shares Rhonda Cunningham, Executive Director of the NHH Foundation.  “Saying thank you simply seems inadequate to express the extent of how truly grateful we are.  This community continues to shine despite the fact our world is in crisis, and acts like this – no matter how big or small – are a reminder we will get through this together.”

“With the fast-moving and constantly evolving situation that is COVID-19, it is difficult to say where funds will be needed in the coming weeks and months, or to predict what needs may arise,” continues Cunningham. “What we do know is that needs will arise, and we will have to be prepared to respond to these quickly.”

As always, any donations will help to ensure the NHH team has the best access possible to the essential lifesaving equipment, technology and supports needed to provide the best possible care for the community, and support safety for patients and staff.

For more information on how you can make a gift to support NHH, contact the NHH Foundation or donate online at www.NHHFoundation.ca.