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An ark for community

MultiCare Health Foundation works for all

Noah’s Ark is symbolic of the MultiCare Health Foundation’s commitment to community care. Photo credit: J.M. Simpson

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An ark is a symbol of protection and safety to meet the needs of a community.

The MultiCare Health Foundation understands the connection between caring for those in need and being in the community is which providers serve.

"We are all about caring on all levels," Mary Ann Bastin, director of pediatric therapy services, told me during a telephone interview.

Located at 402 15th Avenue in Puyallup, the children's therapy center is shaped like an ark.

"Not only do we care for all our patients, but we care deeply about the community at large," she said.

MultiCare Health Foundation supports a research institute, hospitals, more than 100 clinics, thousands of patients and the community's health.

"We are part of the larger community; we are thoroughly integrated into that community," Bastin continued.

When it comes to making a donation to the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), the foundation seeks out and provides money where the need is the greatest for the year.

One hundred percent of CFC and other donations goes directly into program support.

One such example is the Tree House:  A Place for Families.

A renovated apartment building, the structure gives family members a place to stay while their loved one is hospitalized.  It provides families with a place to sleep, shower, prepare a meal and support one another.

Rates are on a sliding scale based on the ability to pay; no family is turned away.

"Needs assessments help us determine which program to emphasize," Bastin said.

She pointed out how a Child Abuse Center responds to the emergent needs of its clients.

"There may not be enough money to meet some of the needs; money from donations, however, can step in and fill the need," Bastin continued.

Near to her heart are the children with whom she works.

"Helping through donating takes all of us, especially when it's kids with special needs and disabilities," Bastin said. "It is a global effort, and the community is not alone; we are here for you."

The foundation's CFC contribution number is 17233.

For more information about the MultiCare Health Foundation, visit www.multicarefoundation.org.

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