November 9, 2001

The United Way is well known for bringing hope and help to needy individuals in Boston and its surrounding areas. Just as the MGH United Way campaign kicks into high gear, programs are under way that highlight the importance of United Way funding not only in the community, but also at the MGH itself.

While the MGH United Way campaign sets a fundraising goal each year – the 2001 campaign target is $225,000 – a percentage of all monies raised beyond the goal goes directly back to the hospital. "Some of our patients have needs that cannot be addressed by the community," explains Evelyn Bonander, MSW, director of MGH Social Services. "Here at the MGH, we make use of several programs that benefit from the United Way and its affiliated agencies to assist those patients."

At right, Debbie Lavandier and Gina Climo, both of MGH Human Resources, staff the United Way information table in the Main Corridor.

The MGH channels United Way monies into initiatives such as providing affordable lodging and transportation for out-of-town patients' families; offering specialized summer camps for pediatric patients; gathering sweat suits and socks for the homeless; and assisting patients and families with rent, utilities and food when in desperate situations.

A new and inspiring example of United Way funds put into compassionate action is the Inpatient Emergency Food Pack Program at the MGH, which began in October. A collaboration between MGH Social Services and Nutrition and Food Services, the program provides a sufficient weekend food supply for elderly or disabled patients – living alone and demonstrating financial need – after they are are discharged from the hospital. Each patient is sent home with a food pack, including nutritious, easy-to-prepare foods that accommodates the limitations of a person going home after an extended hospital stay. Patients also are referred to other home-based programs, such as Partners Home Care and Meals on Wheels. "This program is a vital resource for patients who may have no one else to turn to at a time when they are very vulnerable," says Bonander. "In this case, United Way funding helped to turn an idea into an important reality."

The MGH United Way campaign will run through Nov. 16. To obtain pledge cards or receive more information about making a donation, contact your department representative or visit www.mgh.harvard.edu/pubaffairs/UnitedWay/uwhome.htm