Orleans Community Health postpones 2 fundraisers, welcomes donations
MEDINA – The latest restrictions ordered by Governor Cuomo in efforts to stem the spread of the coronavirus in New York State have not only resulted in local organizations having to make drastic changes in planned events for the year, but could have a negative financial effect, especially on Orleans Community Health.
At Medina Memorial Hospital, Orleans Community Health has announced the postponement of two events – a Meet and Greet with new doctors on March 25 sponsored by Community Partners, and a basket raffle in honor of the late Nancy Albanese April 2 to April 4, sponsored by a group of community members. Proceeds of the event, when it can take place, will go towards renovations and improvements in the Recovery Room, where Albanese worked for most of her 40 years at the hospital.
Heather Smith, director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation, said they are extremely busy implementing protocols to ensure they are doing their utmost to protect every resident, patient and staff member.
“In addition to these protocols, we have been asked to postpone our events and meetings for an unspecified amount of time,” Smith said.
Orleans Community Health’s “For Women Only” event on April 29 also has been postponed. That event typically includes more than 200 people and is a fundraiser for people battling cancer.
As of right now, Smith said the OCHF Annual Golf Tournament is currently scheduled for June 19, however, they are holding off on taking registrations and sponsors until they feel confident it will not be canceled. The good news is, she said, they already have a rain date of July 24.
Unfortunately, some of these protocols have cost the hospital.
“We have yet to determine the actual financial impact this will have on our bottom line,” Smith said. “It is of great concern that while we are trying to protect our community we will also suffer a huge financial burden, due to the added expense of implementing necessary precautions and regulations which are out of our control.”
The hospital is asking anyone who has the means to consider making a donation at this time to help alleviate these unforeseen expenses that could have a dramatic effect over the long run.
Anyone who can make a donation is asked to mail a check payable to Orleans Community Health Foundation, 200 Ohio St., Medina, or donate online at www.supportoch.org.
