Gala Raises $146,000 for Treatment Services in Lincoln County December 26, 2024 Community members gathered for an evening of celebration at the Pacific Communities Health District Foundation’s Gala and Auction held Saturday, Dec. 14. Together, they raised $146,000 to support programs at the new Samaritan Treatment & Recovery Services center in Newport. “We are immensely grateful that our community shows up time and again to improve access to care for patients and their families through this annual event,” said Karla Clem, executive director of the PCHD Foundation. Clem is at left in the photo with Kimberlee Gray, the PCHD Foundation’s development specialist. On behalf of the PCHD Foundation, Clem expressed appreciation to the 140 guests who attended, and the many local and regional businesses for their support. Oregon Coast Bank and Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital Auxiliary were platinum-level sponsors for the event, and additional businesses sponsored at gold, silver and bronze levels, as well as through donations of live auction items, desserts, gift cards and certificates. “With the funds raised from the gala, we can ensure that we’re setting up patients like Kimmy Palmer for ongoing success right out of the gate when the recovery center opens this summer,” Clem said. Palmer, who is now a Newport resident, received treatment through Samaritan’s treatment and recovery center in Lebanon. She agreed to tell her inspiring story of hope in a video, Reclaiming Life’s Joy, that was shown at the event. About the Center Samaritan Treatment & Recovery Services’ Newport center will offer inpatient and outpatient treatment services, including medication-assisted therapy, group and individual therapies, and peer supports. It will also provide education, such as pro-social skills and household budgeting, plus basic necessities like clothing and hygiene items. “All of the programs are designed to help patients and their families reclaim their lives from substance use,” Clem said. About the Foundation Since 1983, generous philanthropists have joined the PCHD Foundation to improve access, inspire hope, build community and leave a legacy of generosity for health care locally. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of local communities by raising funds to acquire new equipment, facilities, services, education and art for the Pacific Communities Health District, in partnership with Samaritan Pacific Health Services. “As a nonprofit health care provider, Samaritan does not turn anyone away for inability to pay or lack of insurance. Access to care for substance use disorder in Oregon is a dire situation. That is why community support means so much,” Clem said. To learn more or to support health care initiatives meaningful to you, visit samhealth.org/Giving.
