Baystate Health Foundation has received a $50,000 grant from the New York Life Foundation to support its Spiritual Services program.
The Love Takes Action Award program awards $50,000 to local nonprofit organizations, which are championed by New York Life agents and employees. Foundation Trustee and New York Life agent Jean Deliso, CFP nominated Rev. Ute Schmidt, manager of Spiritual Services at Baystate Health, for her exceptional community service and the compassionate care she showed for patients and families during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Reverend Schmidt and her team chose to be by the sides of patients to bring them comfort during COVID-19. Particularly at the time when family members were not allowed to visit their sick loved ones, she felt it was and is her duty to step into the role of an intimate caregiver. She continues to place herself and her fear aside to meet the needs of her patients,” said Deliso.
Thirty-five community members from across the nation embodying “Love Takes Action” in response to the COVID-19 pandemic were honored with the award. Each honoree selected a nonprofit to receive the $50,000 general support grant. Rev. Schmidt chose to support Baystate Health’s Spiritual Services program.
Rev. Schmidt noted it is an “honor” to receive the award.
“I share this award with the entire spiritual care team at Baystate who every day brings a compassionate presence to patients, family members and staff. There is a positive relationship between spirituality and health. The role of spirituality and healing, however, is sometimes overlooked in healthcare. The Love Takes Action Award brings national recognition to and elevates the role of spiritual care and for that I am truly grateful,” said Rev. Schmidt.
To explore your giving options in support of all Baystate Health hospitals, programs and services, please visit the Baystate Health Foundation website.