SPRING 2009

The Foundation

By Colleen Bracken Marotta Executive Director
Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation

I would like to express the Foundation's deepest gratitude to our benefactors who in a troubled economy remain devoted to the poor families in Bethlehem and its surrounding areas.

The poor, who walk in the steps of our Savior, are being served by your kindness and charity in many priceless ways.

The pre-mature baby struggling so hard for her life is nurtured to safety in the hospital's neo-natal intensive care unit.

The weary expectant mother from a nearby refugee camp who leaves our outreach clinic not only with the necessary pre-natal vitamins but with a uplifted spirit from being treated with dignity from our medical staff.

The family, who travels down the desert mountainside, from their tin roof dwelling for the mobile outreach van that has endured many miles and checkpoints to serve them.

Thanks to our supporters, the Foundation was able to disburse $548,600 to the Holy Family Hospital in 2008. This allocation assisted in the deliveries of 3,224 infants, 18,223 women and children examined in outpatient consultations and 387 babies achieving their fullest potential through the neo-natal intensive care unit. Additionally, the Foundation donors sponsored two nurses and two students in receiving their midwifery degree. One family sponsored a Christmas party for the workers of Holy Family Hospital, providing them with a well deserved break and recognition of their critical work in the Holy Land. Lastly, a Knight of Malta sent a container of equipment to the Hospital.

During my visit in November 2008, I was blessed to see firsthand how your generosity is having a significant impact on the lives of the Bethlehem families who live under desperate situations and in extreme poverty. Thankfully they have Holy Family Hospital, which I witnessed as an oasis of peace, tranquility and most importantly a joyous place where new life resounds from its hallways.