To observe Providence Mission Week from September 18 – 22, 2017, honoring the life and legacy of Blessed Emilie Gamelin, foundress of the Sisters of Providence, Providence Health Plan partnered with Catholic Charities of Oregon. Specifically, employees at the Murray Business Center in Beaverton teamed up with Catholic Charities of Oregon’ Refugee Services program to learn more about the struggles and resiliency of refugees resettling in Oregon.
In addition to learning about refugees through educational displays and materials, employees generously supported the program by donating multiple truckloads of in-kind, donated goods. Items included cleaning supplies, diapers, pillows, and other items critically important for newly resettled refugee families. Additionally, employees gave generously to the week-long fundraising campaign, which raised over $2,000, thanks to Providence’s matching gift.
“We are so thankful to our friends at Providence Health Plan for choosing Catholic Charities of Oregon as a beneficiary of their generosity and compassionate service during Mission Week. Their contributions will make an incredible impact for the refugee families we serve here in Oregon,” said James Howell, Director of Development for Catholic Charities of Oregon.
The annual Mission Week is designated as a time for Providence Health Plan and its employees to recommit to the Providence mission of “revealing God’s love for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, through compassionate service.” Activities were coordinated by the organization’s Mission and Diversity Committee.