Since March, the pandemic has turned our world upside down in many ways, causing panic and uncertainty. Items that many of us took for granted, like toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies, were suddenly in high demand. These critical commodities are essential for every household and business, but the need is especially urgent for community health centers like Mary’s Center.

To prevent the spread of infection and keep medical providers and participants safe, Mary’s Center reconfigured its clinics, increased cleanings, and invested in essential protective gear. However, like many health facilities across the nation, we faced challenges obtaining cleaning and medical supplies, especially during the first few months.

Access to life-saving resources when we needed them most.

Amid nationwide shortages and backed up deliveries, Amazon stepped in and helped keep our doors open. Through Amazon Business, Mary’s Center staff had fast access to a wide array of cost-effective cleaning, sanitation, and medical gear. Increased access was paired with increased savings. Our Amazon partnership reduced our organizational overhead expenses by consolidating suppliers and using the dynamic pricing environment offered through the Amazon Business platform. This reduction of expenses helped Mary’s Center cover the costs of COVID-19 tests and emergency medical visits for the uninsured.

In addition to giving Mary’s Center access to necessary supplies, Amazon also made it easy for individuals to support the thousands of Mary’s Center participants impacted by the pandemic. Through the Amazon Charity List, individuals can buy diapers, baby formula, soap, baby wipes, and more for our participants who, due to recent job loss or wage cuts, are unable to purchase these items themselves. All items are shipped right to Mary’s Center and distributed for direct relief.

A lasting partnership with lasting impact.

Even before coronavirus, Amazon was a long-standing partner of Mary’s Center — specifically through AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile enables individuals to give back to causes they care about while they shop. Amazon donates 0.5% of eligible purchases to charitable organizations, with no fees and no cost passed onto the organization. Mary’s Center is one of many local nonprofits whose work is supported by Amazon purchases. Don’t forget to support Mary’s Center when you shop using AmazonSmile!

Mary’s Center is grateful to Amazon for being a dedicated partner helping us continue to serve the community throughout these challenging times.