Fresenius Medical Care North America CARES Fund Donates Over $1.5 Million in Grants to Employees
As a result of generous contributions from Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) and individual employees to the company’s hardship fund, more than $1.5 million was granted to employees in need in 2020. This demonstration of compassion came during a year of unexpected uncertainty and challenges.
The CARES Fund (Compassionate Assistance and Relief for Employees in need of Support) was established a decade ago to help FMCNA employees facing unforeseen financial burden brought on by events such as natural disasters or personal hardships, both of which were widespread in 2020. Support from FMCNA and individual employee donations make up the bulk of The CARES Fund.
“As a leading healthcare employer, it’s no surprise that our employees stepped up not only to care for our patients, but also each other,” said Brian Silva, Chief Human Resources Officer for FMCNA. “Our employees have yet again showed their compassion and generosity. And the donations have made meaningful impacts in the lives of employees who have faced personal tragedy.”
The increase in need during 2020 is directly tied to the COVID-19 pandemic and the record-breaking natural disaster season. By the end of December, confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States neared 20 million. Thirty named storms during last year’s hurricane season caused massive amounts of destruction, and a series of wildfires across the western United States led to over $16 billion in property damage. Collectively, these events caused major economic turmoil that left many families and FMCNA employees in need of support.
When Tiffany, Ward Clerk at FMCNA in Little Rock, was sick for three weeks as a result of COVID-19, she struggled to return to work, testing positive for an extended period of time. As her children attempted to settle into virtual learning, her daughter was also diagnosed with COVID-19. Eventually, Tiffany exhausted her paid time off and her finances became tight. With support from the CARES Fund, Tiffany could pay for her electricity, water, and medical bills.
“The CARES Fund is a blessing,” says Tiffany. “It really helped my family out. You never know when the shoe will be on the other foot. We’re all on the same team and have compassion and commitment to helping each other. The smallest thing can help – you never know.”
Tiffany is back at work and proud to be part of the FMCNA team.
To learn more about the CARES Fund, please visit https://caresfundrelief.org/.
