CLEARWATER, Fla. , Sept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Anticipating that thousands of team members are suffering severe impacts from Hurricane Helene, BayCare Health System has created a special relief fund to support staff in need.
"Our team members are our greatest asset, and without them, we simply couldn't fulfill our mission through providing high-quality, compassionate care to the communities we serve," said BayCare President and CEO Stephanie Conners . "We work 24/7 to keep open 16 hospitals and other services across West Central Florida, even during hurricanes, and our team shows up without hesitation. Now we need to help those who are always prepared to help others.
" BayCare has committed up to $10 million for the relief fund. In addition, the not-for-profit organization is inviting team members and others who were not personally impacted by Hurricane Helene to donate to the fund. BayCare will match every donation 2:1, from $1 to $100,000 .
"We've heard from many that they want to support their colleagues," said Conners, who was the first to donate to the fund. "This is one way they can help." Team members received information via an email on Sunday about how to apply for assistance.
Hurricane Helene, which passed West Central Florida on Thursday, is the worst storm to hit Tampa Bay since 1921. BayCare, with more than 32,000 team members and a primary footprint serving Hillsborough , Pasco , Pinellas and Polk counties, is one of the region's largest private employers. One.
