Donated Care Packages Bring Relief and Joy to 1,700 Team Members at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital

Far Rockaway, New York, May 6, 2020 — The care packages were distributed by American Red Cross volunteers as staff entered and exited the hospital’s campus.

“The selfless medical professionals and hospital staff combatting this public health crisis, especially those working tirelessly at the epicenter of the outbreak in New York City, need our support now more than ever. As lifelong and proud New Yorkers, we are honored to do our part to recognize, help and thank our healthcare heroes and their loved ones,” said Debra and Leon Black in a press release announcing the initiative of providing care packages to NYC’s 100,000+ hospital healthcare professionals.

“We are working tirelessly to provide the best care for our patients, and these care packages provide relief to our dedicated team members who may find it challenging to shop for many of life’s essential items at this time,” said Jerry Walsh, SJEH’s Chief Executive Officer. “Thank you to the Debra and Leon Black Family, Aramark, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, Robin Hood, and American Red Cross, for thinking about our hospital and providing this much appreciated donation.”

SJEH—the only hospital located on the Rockaway Peninsula—has been at the forefront of battling the

COVID-19 pandemic. To date, the hospital has successfully discharged 449 COVID-19 patients, while continuing to serve patients who are in need of other medical services not related to the novel coronavirus.