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As Ashtabula County Medical Center continues to care for COVID-19 patients, the ACMC Foundation has created a special fund to care for the needs of caregivers and the hospital’s patients.

“Companies and individuals have donated thousands of dollars of supplies and equipment, as well as food and gift cards for our caregivers. Others have asked about monetary donations to support our caregivers. We created the COVID Relief and Support Fund to help meet the needs of ACMC’s caregivers, patients, and the hospital as those needs arise,” said ACMC Foundation Executive Director Tammy Netkowicz.

Netkowicz said discussion by the ACMC Foundation Board of Trustees centered on three areas of need – caregivers, direct patient care, and additional hospital support.

ACMC healthcare professionals find themselves in a variety of circumstances across the hospital. Providers, nurses, and other caregivers are spending long hours preparing for and caring for patients, while others are working from home or have been furloughed because services have consolidated behind COVID-19 care.

“Our caregivers are currently bearing the brunt of the work, and the stress of that work, as the hospital reacts to the changing situation during the COVID-19 pandemic. I see their dedication to this community and having the COVID Relief Fund to support them is a welcome resource,” said ACMC President and CEO Michael Habowski.

Possible uses for the COVID Relief Fund in support of caregivers might include providing meals both in the hospital or to caregivers’ families after a caregiver’s shift. Other possibilities include opportunities to support caregivers’ emotional needs; or supplementing ACMC’s Employee Care Fund, which assists caregivers facing unexpected financial hardship.

To support patients, the COVID Relief Fund might be an available resource to help improve communications with family and friends. Netkowicz said they are considering various communication devices and strengthening internet infrastructure to facilitate video chats and also support hospital operations.

“The COVID Relief Fund is set up to be adaptable and flexible so that we can meet needs as they arise,” Netkowicz said. “Things are happening fast and needs are changing quickly. We want to be able to support ACMC and address the unique needs of caregivers and patients just as quickly.”

For as long as the COVID-19 pandemic impacts Ashtabula County Medical Center and the community, ACMC Foundation will address these unique needs as they arise, and will respond according to the resources available.

“We are grateful for the ongoing community support,” Habowski said. “It truly shows the heart of this community that so many stand ready to support us in this difficult time.”

To contribute to the COVID Relief and Support Fund, visit www.acmchealth.org/donation. Checks can be mailed to: ACMC Foundation, 2420 Lake Ave, Ashtabula OH 44004. For more information, call Tammy Netkowicz at 440-997-6605 or email tammy.netkowicz@acmchealth.org