Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation’s Annual Gala raises $1.7M

Anthony Vecchione//November 27, 2019//

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l-r: Robert Garrett, Gordon Litwin, Joseph Stampe. – HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH

Hackensack Meridian Health Meridian Health Foundation announced that its 22nd Annual Gala, the Giving Heals Gala, raised nearly $1.7 million for the organization.

Gordon Litwin, chair of the Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees, was honored for his longtime dedication to improving health care for New Jersey residents. The signature fundraising event benefited Hackensack Meridian Health’s central and southern region not-for-profit medical centers and community health programs.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Gordon over the last few years,” said Robert Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. “As the chair of our board, he has made such a huge impact on Hackensack Meridian Health, but more importantly, on the health of our community. I can think of nobody more deserving than Gordon to be recognized for his outstanding work and vision in helping to shape health care for New Jersey residents.”

“Health care is probably the most personal and important activity you can be involved in, and I cannot think of a more significant endeavor than working to improve our health, improve our lives and improve our longevity,” said Litwin. “I haven’t done what I do for the recognition, I do it for our community, but I was honored to accept this award and am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”

Funds raised at the Giving Heals gala contribute toward a $150 million fundraising goal as part of Meridian Health Foundation’s Giving Heals campaign.

According to HMH, Giving Heals supports four important initiatives: strengthening oncology services, improving clinical outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and broadening clinical research and academic programs at the following Hackensack Meridian Health medical centers in Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties: Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, Ocean Medical Center, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Riverview Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center.