The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation is raising funds to buy equipment for doctors and nurses on the front lines during the COVID-19 health crisis.
The foundation has set up a health relief fund page to help support the urgent and highest priority needs of the hospitals in Chatham and Wallaceburg as they continue the fight the virus.
"Funds raised will be used to support our front-line healthcare professionals, as well as to purchase critical equipment to enhance the ability to diagnose and treat patients during this difficult time and beyond," said Mary Lou Crowley, foundation CEO.
Crowley said the foundation has been closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds globally and here at home and wanted to reach out to the community to share an update on the actions being taken to safeguard all residents of Chatham-Kent before the worst arrives.
"As concerns over COVID-19 continue to rise, it’s an anxious time for everyone in Chatham-Kent and the impact has been felt by all of us in one way or another," she added.
Crowley said the foundation has received many inquiries from the community about how it can help the hospital and front-line medical professionals during this unprecedented public health crisis.
She added Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) physicians and nursing staff have been on the front lines working with extreme caution and care, and the hospital team is doing everything it can to help flatten the curve of the COVID-19 global pandemic by limiting points of entry and exit at both hospital sites, screening all individuals at all entrances, and implementing visitor restrictions to ensure staff and patients remain safe.
In addition, a COVID-19 assessment centre has been opened at 47 Emma Street to help ensure potential cases are seen promptly and to help reduce the impact on the emergency department.
Those wanting to support the fight against COVID-19 with a donation can click here.
"The health and safety of each member of our community is our highest priority," said Crowley. "As such, we encourage everyone to follow the protocols that support their health and well-being."
Visit the CKHA COVID-19 information page for more information.
"My heart goes out to all who have been affected by COVID-19," Crowley said. "Now more than ever, we must work together to reduce the spread of this virus throughout our communities."