(Chelsea Update would like to thank Rebecca Weil for the information in this story.)
The “Covid-19 – Not All Heroes Wear Capes” initiative will support caregivers and direct care team members as they work to manage the extraordinary challenges COVID-19 has placed on their homes and families.
The campaign already has raised an anonymous gift of $250,000 in matching support to incentivize other local contributions.
“Our world is experiencing a crisis unlike any other in recent memory,” said Wendy Brightman, president of UMRC Foundation and Porter Hills Foundation in a press release.
“As we strive to protect the health and wellbeing of the older adults we serve, we can’t afford to forget the dedicated, compassionate team members who are working hard in our communities each and every day. They deserve every bit of support we can provide,” she said.
The UMRC & Porter Hills organization already has acted swiftly to commit operating dollars to provide extra support to caregivers and frontline team members. The organization has expanded its paid time off programs—including additional pay and supplemental sick bank for use during COVID-19— as well as food pantries at all locations, babysitting services, and more.
“We’ve done a good deal, but we know it’s still not enough to fully protect our team members from personal and financial strain,” Brightman said. “We believe it is essential to alleviate some of their concerns by building extra protections and supports for our ‘healthcare heroes,’ so we can honor their daily achievements and thank them for the sacrifices they are making.”
People who wish to make a secure online donation—which will remain local, and will be matched dollar for dollar—should visit or contact: www.PorterHills.org/Foundation, www.UMRC.com/UMRC-Foundation
