Through donor support, Summit Health Foundation is transforming lives in Franklin County.
Within the next year, the Summit Health Foundation will award more than $450,000 to numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare services, improving patient outcomes and supporting the community through education, training and other resources.
A significant portion of these funds will go toward updating equipment at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and WellSpan Waynesboro Hospital, including the purchase of a new device for endoscopy procedures to stop bleeding in the GI tract and a new monitor to prevent nerve injury during ENT and head and neck procedures.
Commitment to Women’s and Children’s Health
Summit Health Foundation officials said they remain steadfast in their commitment to women’s and children’s health. Pregnancy and childbirth are monumental milestones in a family’s life. At WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, expectant parents find compassionate, caring staff who work as a team in the maternity unit to care for mothers before, during and after delivery. WellSpan Health is dedicated to promoting the well-being and safety of our youngest community members from day one, starting with safe sleep practices learned at the hospital, Foundation officials noted.
Through a grant made possible by donor support, the foundation purchased infant CPR kits to educate parents on infant CPR and other emergencies, aiming to prevent infant death. In fiscal year 2025, this program will benefit up to 255 families by providing them with a kit and lifesaving skills.
Another donor grant was used to purchase items to make NICU care packages for 255 families. These packages help parents cope with the stress of having a child in the NICU, aiming to reduce anxiety, increase bonding and help families partake in the care of their baby.
Thanks to community financial support, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital’s Family Birthing Services made a significant upgrade to their bassinets, promoting safe sleep for newborns. The generous area community donated more than $100,000 to purchase 30 bassinets for the hospital, supporting its more than 1,600 births at Chambersburg Hospital each year, Foundation officials said.
“The Stryker Nara bassinet provides a much better ergonomic option for the nursing staff and parents, compared to the older wooden version of bassinets,” said Terri Chaires, director of patient services, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital. “The ease of maneuverability and adjustable height makes this crib an excellent choice for the newborns’ first ‘limo ride’ when transporting the baby after delivery.”
Generous community members and Summit Health Foundation supporters continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of families in Franklin County. To learn more about the Summit Health Foundation, readers may call the foundation at 717-267-7794 or visit the foundation’s website.
