Friday, May 22, was the last day that Penn State Health accepted drop-off donations of key supplies from the community at large. The health system closed its donation centers in Hershey, Reading, Lancaster and State College and has redeployed staff to support other operational needs.
“As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, supply needs have changed and donations have slowed, making the closure of the centers the logical next step,” said Penn State Health CEO Steve Massini. "The realignment of staff resources will be critical as we begin to resume standard patient appointments, nonemergent surgical procedures and other clinical activities.”
For the two months since the donation centers opened, Penn State Health has been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of local businesses, civic organizations and individual members of the community. Donations have ranged from personal protective equipment, such as masks and gloves, to disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer.
“I have been encouraged by our shared commitment to put the needs of others ahead of our own,” Massini added. “We thank everyone for their tremendous support.”
Penn State Health continues to accept online gifts, checks and in-kind food donations designated specifically for the encouragement and support of hospital staff. For details, visit the community page on the health system website.