When a natural disaster occurs in our community, the ability to deliver care falls on the shoulders of the health system’s 8000+ employees. They have trained for this type of catastrophic event and bravely demonstrated not only their preparedness but their unwavering dedication to ensuring that patient care is at the forefront. Sarasota Memorial’s hurricane response included making room for and caring for evacuated patients from the hardest hit communities to our south. Nearly 25% of the health system’s employees live in South County and other severely impacted areas. I can’t even imagine how difficult it must have been for them to leave their families and friends behind during this hurricane to care for others. These are the same people who risked their lives for us during the pandemic. We want to help them rebuild their homes and their lives. The Healthcare Foundation has established the SMH Employee Hurricane Relief Fund. We have just received a heartfelt $250,000 gift from Eliza and Hugh Culverhouse who are hoping to inspire others to support the brave men and women who are always there when we need them. Because of the number of employees who may need financial assistance—possibly thousands—we need your support, too. There are three easy ways to make your gift: 1. On our website at smhf.org/ian, or by clicking here. 2. Send a check to: Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, 1515 S. Osprey Ave, Ste B4, Sarasota, FL 34239. 3. Call us at 941-917-1286. We are truly grateful for all you do. Together we strengthen healthcare.