Contact:
Amy Massimo
Director, Public Affairs
(845) 348-2773
Nyack, NY – October 25, 2011 – Who better to give a child a little bit of comfort than a Teddy Bear? Nyack Hospital is pleased to announce that it is a recipient of the Freemason’s Teddies Love Children Program. Under this program, all children requiring hospitalization or emergency services at Nyack Hospital are given a plush teddy bear to help comfort these special patients.
Pictured, left to right: Bruce McQuade, Hudson River Lodge #309; Dan Elliott, Master of Hudson River Lodge #309; Louis Irizarry, District Deputy Grand Master; Jordan Griffen with his new bear; Colin Oakenfull, Master of Walkill Lodge #627; and Brother Thomas Nervenga, President, Orange Rockland District Masonic Association
Bears will be distributed to these children by a team of dedicated volunteers at Nyack Hospital. “We are delighted to work with the Freemasons on this project,” stated Helen Hayes-Perkins, Director of Volunteers Services. She added, “Our volunteers are thrilled to provide comfort to children and families coping with their hospitalization. It is a good feeling when you can help reduce a child’s anxiety in the hospital and the bears are a reassuring and familiar toy.”
To date, the Freemasons have donated over 800,000 teddy bears, bringing joy and smiles to children worldwide.
For further information, please contact Helen Hayes-Perkins, Director, Volunteer Services, at 845.348.2204.
Nyack Hospital is a 375-bed community acute care medical and surgical hospital located in Rockland County, NY. Founded in 1895, it is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System. For additional information, please visit our web site at www.nyackhospital.org.
