When the COVID-19 pandemic hit New Jersey in early March, Atlantic Health System team members not only worked tirelessly at the forefront of the crisis, but they also joined forces with the community to donate generously to the COVID-19 Support Fund. From monetary contributions to meal deliveries, gift cards and personal care items like Crocs™ and compression socks, more than $3 million was donated in less than five months.

“While Morristown Medical Center employees donate to our nonprofit hospital year-round, it was extremely touching to see just how many of the nearly 1,500 donations came from members of our team, past and present,” Joette Rosato, director of annual giving for the Foundation for Morristown Medical Center, said.

Alongside their donations, many shared heartwarming notes and words of encouragement for their coworkers:

“All of you have been in my thoughts every day. Words cannot do justice to the sacrifice, compassion, kindness and love you give to your patients and fellow workers. Thank you for all that you do. My pack sends love and kisses and cannot wait to see you soon,” wrote Peggy Grow, former manager of the Soothing Paws Pet Therapy program for Morristown Medical Center.Amy DeMatteo, RN, was out on maternity leave when the pandemic started and wanted to help her team, even though she could not physically be with them. “Stay strong!” she said in a note included with her donation. “Your heroism reminds me of the good in the world. Thank you.”

As a former Overlook Medical Center nurse, Debra Mishal knew she needed to help frontline team members during the COVID-19 pandemic. While her health prevented her from being able to rejoin the team, she decided to take action in the form of comfortable footwear for Morristown Medical Center Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurses – personally donating $200 in Bombas® socks and working directly with Bombas to secure an additional 100 pairs for our team.

“Our ICU team was appreciative of this thoughtful gift,” said Kristin Ospina, RN, director of nursing for the ICU at Morristown Medical Center. “It meant so much, especially coming from a former ICU nurse. Everyone’s feet are nice and cozy in their new Bombas.”

The Foundation for Morristown Medical Centers thanks the Morristown Medical Center team for going above and beyond to fight COVID-19 on all fronts. Read more about COVID-19 Support Fund donors or donate today.

Pictured above (L-R): Peggy Grow’s, former manager of the Soothing Paws Pet Therapy program for Morristown Medical Center, support dogs, Amy DeMatteo, RN, for Morristown Medical Center with her daughter and Debra Mishal, former Overlook Medical Center nurse.