We have received a letter, written in February 2021, from Ambassador Michele B. Bowe, who is the President of the Holy Family Hospital Foundation. The impact of the Covid 19 pandemic has had devastating consequences for the Hospital and the surrounding region of Bethlehem:

90% unemployment creating increased poverty, food scarcity and increased inability of patients to contribute to their health care expenses; Low community testing levels; in the past year 28 staff members contracted Covid through community spread and 80 staff members quarantined due to exposure; Hospital salaries were cut by 18% for three months.

HOWEVER
The Hospital provided 144,870 services and delivered 4,364 babies in 2020. The NICU provided lifesaving care for 423 newborns, 100 of whom weighed less than two pounds and were born before 32 weeks.

The staff social workers, a lifeline for the poor, continue to network with other charities to help families buy milk, bread and baby supplies, and intervene for those without heat, running water and electricity.

Despite the pandemic and associated economic challenges, the Hospital remains an instrument of peace and a beacon of hope in providing state-of-the-art healthcare and meaningful employment.

THIS WEEKEND, MEMBERS OF OUR PARISH WILL BE SPEAKING ABOUT THE HOSPITAL AT ALL OF THE MASSES. OUR COLLECTION CONTINUES UNTIL THE END OF THIS MONTH. DONATION ENVELOPES CAN BE FOUND AT THE DOORS OF THE CHURCH AND YOU MAY ALSO CONTRIBUTE VIA FAITH DIRECT. THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT.