By Carmella Sotelino, Events Coordinator
Community health centers nationwide are coping with the financial implications of the pandemic. When the first wave of COVID-19 hit, health centers like Mary’s Center took on unprecedented expenses as we pivoted to address the needs of our community’s most vulnerable populations. From purchasing extra personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies to investing in the expansion of telehealth services, Mary’s Center increased spending by over $3 million in March 2020 alone. With the pandemic still raging, these expenses continue to affect thousands of health centers like Mary’s Center.
Fortunately, generous supporters and partners like Albert Lang, III, have played a crucial role in helping us navigate these challenges. Albert’s monthly donation enabled Mary’s Center to remain on the forefront of care throughout the pandemic. While monthly gifts have always been important for community health centers, these gifts have been of even greater significance during the pandemic, as they have enabled Mary’s Center to respond to arising needs and emergencies throughout the past year.
As Albert shared, “monthly gifts are a reliable revenue stream that the organization can count on throughout the year, which helps them plan accordingly, not to mention that it is a very convenient way to give.”
Deciding to be a monthly donor for Mary’s Center was an easy decision for Albert. He grew up in a family that valued giving back to those in need in their community. Having done previous research on Mary’s Center, he was inspired by its Social Change Model and the wraparound services that provide healthier futures for fellow community members. So, after doing his taxes one year and realizing he was “woefully short in giving back to organizations in DC that provide for change and also support the existing fabric of the community,” Albert decided to invest.
All of us at Mary’s Center are extremely grateful to Albert and monthly donors like him who choose to support our work. In this new year, join Albert and commit to providing quality healthcare, education, and social services year-round with a recurring gift. Donate today and be sure to check the box that says, “make my donation a monthly gift.”
Remember, as a monthly donor, your steady support allows Mary’s Center to provide over 60,000 participants with individualized care on the path toward good health, stability, and economic independence.