Wildfires: Supporting our caregivers and communities
This year’s wildfire season is wreaking havoc in many Providence communities across the Western U.S. The destruction is heart-wrenching. Yet the dedication of our caregivers remains steadfast. My deepest gratitude to everyone serving in our ministries during these trying times.
Thank you to our caregivers for continuing to care for patients even as you may be facing your own personal uncertainty about your family, neighbors, pets and property. Even the simple act of breathing is a struggle due to the poor air quality from the fires.
In Oregon and Northern California, at least 500 of our caregivers have been evacuated from their homes and more than 30 have lost their homes. Tragically, we know of two caregivers who have lost loved ones. Please join me in keeping everyone who has been touched by this tragedy close in your hearts.
We are committed to supporting affected caregivers through assistance with housing, accommodations and other emergency needs. In addition, on behalf of Providence, the St. Joseph Community Partnership Fund is supporting relief agencies and not-for-profit organizations involved in response and recovery efforts.
Many of you have asked how you can help. By donating to our Helping Hands fund, you can support affected caregivers in their time of need.
- If you are a Providence caregiver in need of support from the fires, you can learn more about our caregiver assistance resources here.
- To give to the Helping Hands Fund, we have set up this donation page. You may also give to your local ministry foundation’s Helping Hands fund.
While the entire West Coast is affected by the fires, our ministries in Oregon have been hit hardest. For incredible stories of heroism, I invite you to watch this moving video from Lisa Vance, chief executive of the Providence Oregon region.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the role of climate change in this disaster. Earlier this year, we announced our commitment to become carbon negative by 2030. The steps we are taking to reduce our impact on the earth could not come at a more urgent time.
Our caregivers have been on the frontlines of COVID-19 and are now stepping up once again to serve during this natural disaster. I am profoundly grateful and inspired. Thank you for all you do.
Medical Director, Environmental Stewardship
3yThank you so much for expressing the following: “I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the role of climate change in this disaster. Earlier this year, we announced our commitment to become carbon negative by 2030. The steps we are taking to reduce our impact on the earth could not come at a more urgent time.” As evidenced by these devastating fires, we must also adapt to build our system and community resilience in the face of the very real and direct threats of climate change.
Culture Formation Facilitator and Storyteller at Providence Medical Foundation
3yThere is already so much to deal with. Prayers that all of our healthcare colleagues stay safe through this.
Family Physician, Associate Medical Director, Champion of Value, Equity, and Agency in Healthcare.
3yThank you Rod. Kind words wouldn’t have reached far enough without the tangible commitment and support of the Providence leadership and community. We care.