Dear Friends,

It is our hope that you and your family are home safe, adhering to social distancing guidelines and staying well during this unprecedented time.

The rapid spread of COVID-19 has led to a global health crisis unlike anything we have seen or experienced. During the past several weeks, we have witnessed truly heroic efforts from physicians and providers, nurses, clinical staff and support services around the world and right here in our own community. Healthcare workers on the frontlines are stepping up to care for the sick around the clock, and that is evident here at Southcoast Health.

As you can imagine, this pandemic is impacting our system and its amazing people in profound ways. We are so impressed by and grateful for the dedicated team of talented individuals here at Southcoast Health. They are your family, friends and neighbors, and they are taking on the coronavirus with a determination that is unmatched. We are all fortunate to benefit from their care, compassion and commitment.

Also overwhelming has been the immense outpouring of support from our community. Friends like you have been reaching out to offer anything and everything that may assist us in this fight. Your support for Southcoast Health and the people who define our organization has been humbling and inspiring, but not surprising. We have said it many times before: There is no greater place than our southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island region.

Many of you have asked how you can help. As we continue to respond to this crisis, we will need your support now more than ever before. Here are just a few ways you can help:

Be Informed, Be Smart, Be Safe: This is most important! Adhere to social distancing guidelines and stay home. Follow us on social media and visit our webpage for the latest resources and updates on COVID-19, including information on our telehealth services and our COVID-19 Nursing Triage Hotline (508-973-1919) for individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Donate personal protective equipment (PPE): If you or your employer has access to PPE, such as N95 respirators, surgical masks, face shields or even hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol-based), please click here.

Give blood: This pandemic has caused a shortage in our country’s blood supply, and donations are critically needed. Your next opportunity to give blood at a Southcoast site is currently May 1, noon to 5, at Charlton Memorial. Make an appointment at 1-800-RED-CROSS or book online here.

Make a financial gift: Our physicians and providers, nurses, clinical staff and support services are on the frontlines, and thousands of employees are working behind the scenes. It is a true team effort for everyone here. A donation in any amount to the Southcoast Health Annual Fund will help provide the resources essential to addressing the most urgent needs of our caregivers. Your contribution will help ensure they have the proper equipment, supplies and support to continue delivering exceptional care to every patient in our community. To donate, click here.

Go red for #SouthcoastFrontlines: Show your support for Southcoast Health’s frontline staff and our region’s first responders by going red with lights, banners, ribbons, hearts and decorations outside your home. Red Southcoast Health flags are available for purchase on our More Store. 100% of the sale price for each flag sold will go directly to our Annual Fund. Post your photos on social media with the hashtag #SouthcoastFrontlines.

Never before has your support been more meaningful and impactful. Moments like this bring the true definition of “community” to life. We are here for you, and we are so fortunate that you are here for us.

Sincerely,

Keith A. Hovan
President & CEO
Southcoast Health

Louis A. Cabral
Chair, Board of Trustees
Southcoast Health