Charles Field – Chief Financial Officer, Penn Community Bank & BCHIP Board Member
Kim M Everett, BS, MA – Executive Director, BCHIP
At the Bucks County Health Improvement Partnership (BCHIP), it’s our mission to provide a leadership role in Bucks County through a collaborative approach to address gaps in health services and to improve the health status of the community.
As our county responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, our partner hospitals, local government officials, and non-profit allies have been working tirelessly to care for those in need. However, as resources are assembled and processes put into place, we noticed a potential gap in the response which would impact some of the community’s most vulnerable residents.
For those diagnosed with COVID-19 but not needing acute hospital-based care, the medical requirement is to quarantine for a period of time to reduce potential for transmission while continuing to monitor the patient’s condition. Yet, for individuals residing in group settings throughout the county, including shelter clients, this requirement prevents them from safely returning to their dwelling and leaves them without anywhere to go or any resources to ensure their recovery.
To address this challenge, Penn Community Bank has committed to donating $30,000 to establish the Healthcare Operational Priority Emergency (HOPE) Fund. This fund, in concert with healthcare providers and local government leaders will provide resources to support individuals who are unsheltered due to COVID-19. Costs may include expenses such as space for safe isolation during illness, essential medical supplies, or personal protective equipment (PPE) for clients and staffing. In addition, funds will be used to address and meet the rapidly changing needs of the Bucks County community brought about by the pandemic.
The creation of the HOPE Fund provides the financial resources to meet the needs identified by government leaders and health experts. Moreover, it is the validation of the importance of developing and deepening public and private partnerships to address health challenges. Penn Community Bank’s partnership is an extension of its mission to deliver financial resources to meet the needs of individuals and families, help businesses grow and prosper, strengthen local economies, and partner with local organizations to improve quality of life.
Together, we can give hope to those most vulnerable in our neighborhoods while protecting the public health of our region.
