When Robert A. Shanley set up his trust decades ago, he never envisioned anything like the coronavirus pandemic. A World War II veteran and professor, Robert simply wanted to support Baystate Medical Center (BMC) and Baystate Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, now known as Baystate Home Health and Hospice (BHH), with a meaningful future gift.
Making an impact now
Though Robert passed away in 2014, his thoughtful bequest gifts joined in the fight as COVID-19 emerged as a public health emergency. Funds from Robert’s gifts combined with contributions from other donors helped enable Baystate Health be responsive and innovative in these challenging days.
With key services shut down to transform the hospital into a pandemic-ready facility, Baystate’s operating budget came under stress, as did its team of healthcare professionals and staff. The strength of Baystate Health Foundation’s endowment —made stronger by Robert’s bequest gifts— helped provide critical support to build a rapid response center in ten days, beef up supplies, and prepare for a surge.
Support that matters
With his bequest gifts, Robert demonstrated his belief in Baystate Health’s dedication to patients and the community, while showing his support for the compassionate care his beloved wife Charlotte received.
To provide long-term financial stability, Robert’s bequests were invested in Baystate Health Foundation’s endowment. Each year, a portion of the income from these endowed funds is used to support the greatest needs of BMC and BHH.
“In times of crisis, we have relied on our friends to open doors, create new sources of supply, and donate resources critical for the fight,” shared Mark Keroack, MD, Baystate Health president & CEO. “We are so thankful for Robert Shanley and others who have strengthened Baystate Health with gifts from their estates. Bequest gifts provide financial stability and are a source of long-term support that means so much for emerging needs.”
Learn more about creating a lasting legacy at Baystate Health.