Grants

As part of our ongoing commitment to community wellness, we continue to support the Minges Wellness Center and its vital role in preventive health care. In 2024 alone, the center conducted over 8,000 blood pressure readings, helping individuals monitor and manage a key indicator of heart health. These screenings play a critical role in the early detection of hypertension and other cardiovascular risks, particularly in underserved populations. By providing accessible monitoring and education, the Minges Wellness Center empowers community members to take charge of their health and contributes to reducing long-term health disparities across our region.

We assisted in the purchase of six UVDI-Go UV disinfection flashlights to enhance infection control in high-touch, hard-to-clean areas. These portable devices use UV-C light to quickly and effectively eliminate bacteria and viruses on surfaces like medical equipment, workstations, and patient rooms. This investment supports our commitment to maintaining a safe, clean environment for both patients and staff.

To help remove barriers to care, we provided the funds to purchase transportation assistance for cardiac rehabilitation patients facing financial hardship. Through a partnership with Lenoir County Transit, eligible patients received transit tickets to ensure they could attend their vital rehab appointments. This support plays a key role in improving recovery outcomes by promoting consistent participation in treatment. It reflects our broader commitment to equitable access and the long-term health of our community.

The assistance of this initiative provides specialized training and equipment to enhance hemorrhage control skills among hospital staff and community members. By teaching lifesaving techniques such as wound packing and tourniquet application, participants are better prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations. The program helps bridge the gap between the onset of trauma and professional medical care, potentially saving lives. It also strengthens community resilience and supports a culture of preparedness and safety.

Emergency cut-down tools were purchased to enhance safety and support rapid response during suicide attempts or self-harm incidents. These tools allow trained staff to quickly and safely intervene, potentially saving lives in critical moments. Their presence reflects a proactive approach to behavioral health emergencies and underscores our commitment to creating a safe, responsive environment for patients and staff.

We assisted in the acquisition of an automated TEECLEAN system to ensure high-level disinfection of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probes. This advanced equipment enhances the consistency and reliability of the cleaning process, reducing the risk of infection and improving patient safety. It also helps align our practices with the latest sterile processing standards and regulatory guidelines. By investing in TEECLEAN, we’re reinforcing our commitment to excellence in both cardiac care and infection prevention.

We supported the upgrade of our operating rooms and nursing stations with the addition of Capsa M-Series carts and ergonomic chairs, enhancing both clinical workflow and staff well-being. The carts improve sterility and organization by optimizing the storage and accessibility of essential surgical tools and supplies. Ergonomic chairs help reduce physical strain during extended procedures, promoting greater comfort and reducing fatigue for OR staff. Together, these upgrades contribute to a safer, more efficient surgical environment and elevate the quality of patient care.

The foundation generously funded the certification of one instructor as a Rock Steady Boxing Head Coach. This specialized training equips the coach to lead non-contact boxing-based fitness classes designed specifically for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. The program aims to improve patients' mobility, balance, and overall quality of life through targeted physical activity. This initiative reflects the foundation’s commitment to supporting innovative and therapeutic community health programs.

The Foundation funded the purchase of 12 car seats to help ensure safe transportation for newborns and young children, addressing a critical barrier to timely hospital discharge. This support is especially vital for families facing urgent or financially challenging circumstances, where access to a car seat may be limited. By providing these essential safety items, we help prevent delays in care transitions while promoting the well-being of our youngest patients. The program reflects our commitment to supporting families in need and fostering safe, healthy starts for every child.

The foundation provided critical funding to supply adaptive equipment that is often not covered by insurance, including hip kits, splints, and portable ramps. These tools play a vital role in supporting patients’ recovery and promoting greater independence as they transition from inpatient rehabilitation to home. By removing financial barriers to essential equipment, the program helps ensure safer, more confident mobility and improved quality of life for patients post-discharge. This support reflects a strong commitment to patient-centered care and long-term recovery.

The foundation continued its support for an established mammogram screening program that serves the local community and surrounding areas. This initiative provides vital access to early detection services, especially for individuals who may be uninsured or underinsured. By promoting routine screenings, the program plays a key role in improving cancer outcomes through early diagnosis and timely treatment. The foundation’s ongoing commitment helps ensure that more individuals receive the preventive care they need to protect their health.

The foundation funded a specialized sink station designed for the initial cleaning of DaVinci robotic surgical instruments. This critical first step in the sterilization process includes rinsing, brushing, and flushing to remove biological material and prevent cross-contamination. The station supports hospital infection control protocols and aligns with industry standards, ensuring patient safety and regulatory compliance. It also allows for the careful handling of delicate, high-precision tools, preserving their function and extending their usability.