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Did you know that it takes over a million years for a plastic bottle to decompose?
The Benedictine Health Foundation in Kingston, NY recycles plastic water and soda bottles to make a positive impact on the environment and to provide money for gas and grocery gift cards to be given directly to cancer patients needing extra funds while receiving treatments. Sr. Philomena Fleck, who is stationed in Ulster County, and her network of helpers collect plastic bottles to assist with this project. Occasionally, her bottle collection is too large to fit in her car and a friend with a truck is needed to bring them to the Hannaford drop location where bags are scanned and deposit refunds are allocated to the Foundation’s account.
As good as the project is, bagging bottles is a slow way to raise funds. So in addition, Benedictine Health Foundation conducts a bike race, a ski benefit, a Sip and Savor event and other fund-raising activities. The Foundation also partners with businesses, grant makers and individuals who share its desire to improve the lives of cancer patients. Since it was established in 2004, the Foundation’s Rosemary D. Gruner Memorial Cancer Fund has provided over $1,000,000 to aid in the treatment, care and support of cancer patients in Ulster County and neighboring areas.
The Foundation is proud to carry on a tradition of caring that began with the Benedictine Sisters in 1901 and continues today through the community-based foundation. Sisters Mary Feehan, Dorothy Huggard, and Philomena Fleck serve on its board today.For more information about the Foundation see www.benedictinehealthfoundation.org