COVID Response Fund

In March, when the COVID-19 pandemic began to take hold in communities where Franciscan Health is privileged to serve, people knew they could turn to us to care for them during this health crisis. When its realities became overwhelming – an inundation of critically ill patients, long hours, supply shortages – we turned to our communities. You were there for us – overwhelmingly – in the best way possible. 

“The outpouring of interest and generosity was a bright spot during a dark time,” said Caitlin Leahy, Franciscan Health Foundation senior vice president. “It was such a beautiful response. Our communities banded together and said, `we've got this, we're here for you.”  

In answer to your offers to help, the Franciscan Health Foundation established the Franciscan Preparedness and Response Fund. Individuals and businesses have given more than $415,000. The fund has covered urgently needed supplies and equipment such as sanitation stations, ultraviolet cleaning robots, sneeze guards, infrared thermometers, high-flow nasal cannulas, chest compression machines and iPads for patients to use to connect with family while hospitalized. 

Your financial support was just the beginning. You made sure our Franciscan Heroes, the thousands of dedicated people working tirelessly to care for patients and keep our operations running smoothly, knew they weren't alone. You sent hope and filled our coworkers with energy and purpose in many ways, donating:

• Nearly 70,000 N95, surgical and homemade masks
• More than 165,000 pairs of gloves
• Countless gowns, face shields, bottles of sanitizer and wipes
• Thousands of meals, snacks and drinks
• Walls and walls of notes, cards and pictures of gratitude and encouragement

With flu season approaching, and a second wave of COVID-19, we know our work is not done. Your continued support to the Franciscan Preparedness and Response Fund will help us stay ahead of the game.

“A threat like COVID-19 impacts everyone, but it presents a space to mobilize as a community,” said Leahy. “We saw that play out tenfold.” Franciscan Health is grateful for the many ways you showed what happens when we come together. Thank you for answering our call to generosity!

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