April 1, 2019 (York, Pa.) – The board of the Memorial Health Fund (MHF) has awarded a $1 million grant for the inclusion of green spaces on the grounds of the new UPMC Pinnacle Memorial Hospital. The importance of green spaces to promote healing and mental health aligns with MHF’s focus on transforming the ways our community addresses compelling health issues, including the complete physical, mental and social well-being of the residents of York and its surrounding communities.
“Outdoor areas stood out to the MHF Board as a unique feature of the new hospital. Access to green spaces reduces health inequalities, improves well-being and mental health, and reduces physiological stress, according to the World Health Organization,” cited Josette Myers, chair-elect of the Memorial Health Fund board of directors. “These outcomes align with our priorities for the York area, providing an opportunity to support the health of our community while advancing our mission.”
The walking trail will connect the campus and be open to the public, improving health beyond a visit to the hospital. The reflection and rooftop gardens will be healing areas for patients and their visitors, with the opportunity to get outside and connect with nature during their stay.
“We are very pleased to announce that the Memorial Health Fund has made a commitment to the new UPMC Memorial project and making an investment in a healthy future for all of York County,” said Phil Guarneschelli, President and CEO of UPMC Pinnacle. “Here, residents will have access to life-changing medicine delivered by a compassionate team of providers while being surrounded by serenity gardens and a natural environment that promotes healing and wellness opportunities.”
This $1 million grant is the largest commitment the Memorial Health Fund has made since joining York County Community Foundation as a supporting organization in 2015 and demonstrates the importance MHF places on high quality healthcare options in our community and the inclusion of alternative healing areas. The grant will be distributed over five years.
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Memorial Health Fund transforms the way our community addresses compelling health issues to improve the complete physical, mental, and social well-being of the residents of York County. Memorial Health Fund became a supporting organization of York County Community Foundation in 2015. Previously, Memorial Health Fund was a supporting organization of Memorial Hospital.
