Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, BAPS Charities has mobilized its volunteers across the country and around the world to support the fight against the pandemic. In addition to donating much-needed supplies and equipment, BAPS Charities is also supporting the many frontline healthcare workers who are selflessly sacrificing their own well-being to preserve that of their communities.
On April 20, 2020, BAPS Charities in Chicago donated over 400 food packages to area hospitals. In total, 200 food packages were delivered to Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL, 100 were delivered to St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates, IL and 100 were delivered to Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Elk Grove Village, IL. The food packages provided first responders and frontline health care professionals with nutritious vegetarian meals.
The meals were prepared in a joint effort between BAPS Shayona and BAPS Charities in accordance with sanitary guidelines and were delivered by BAPS Charities volunteers. Each package also included a personal note of gratitude, handwritten by local youth volunteers, that recognized the tireless efforts of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in treating patients.
Fred Aguilar, Administrative Secretary accepted the donation on behalf of Alexian Brothers Medical Center and expressed immense gratitude for the donation stating “grateful for all of you guys and all the community members for helping and thinking of us.” Maria Jerona RN remarked, “We are grateful for the help we are receiving from the community such as your organization and the support they are giving us.”
At St. Alexius Medical Center, Michelle Johnston RN described what the donation would mean to hospital staff, saying, “The donations we get as a staff team truly keeps us going. With every meal provided to us from the community, we are reminded that there are so many people who care about us.”
BAPS Charities is grateful for the continuous and selfless efforts of all healthcare professionals during these unprecedented times, and its volunteers throughout North America stand ready to support these professionals in any way possible.
