In keeping with their not-for-profit, cooperative structure and “People Helping People” mission, eight Salem credit unions banded together to support the Salem Health Foundation’s Respite Garden and Chapel.

The Foundation has identified needs, raised funds, and responded to the community health care needs of people who live in the Salem area since 1969. As part of the recent facility expansion of Salem Health, the Foundation saw the need for a respite garden and chapel space and committed to the design and funding of what is called the Families Matter Project. The coalition of Salem credit unions are contributing $63,000 to complete the project.

Laurie Roe, Executive Vice President at Oregon State Credit Union stated that “if this project yields comfort, respite, and infrastructure to advance the experience of the families, patients and helps to relieve some of the burden placed on the teams who care for them it will be a big win for the community”.

In addition to Oregon State Credit Union, the other credit unions providing support are:

Central Willamette Credit Union;

First Tech Credit Union;

Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union;

MAPS Credit Union Community Foundation;

Oregon Community Credit Union Foundation;

Unitus Credit Union; and

Valley Credit Union.

“The Families Matter Project will support our credit union members and employees who live and work in the greater Salem area for decades. Having a quiet, comfortable space to relax and reflect at the hospital during what can be a very stressful time will benefit our community everyday” said Pat Force who is the Salem Health Foundation Board Chair and CEO of Valley Credit Union.

You can find further information about the Salem Health Foundation and the Families Matter Project at https://salemhealthfoundation.org/