Credit: Catholic Health
Catholic Health’s five independent foundations have begun the process to merge into one new fundraising entity called The Foundation of Catholic Health, the health system announced in February.
The Buffalo, New York-based system said in a media release that the consolidation is designed to strengthen philanthropic efforts, reduce administrative costs, and better support the health care needs of people throughout Western New York.
"For 175 years, Catholic-sponsored health care has been a cornerstone of care in our community," Joyce Markiewicz, president and CEO of Catholic Health, said in the release. "Bringing our foundations together under one banner allows us to be better stewards
of our donor contributions, streamline our fundraising efforts, and focus more directly on supporting the healing mission that has guided us for generations. Simply put, we are stronger together."
The foundations that are merging are Continuing Care Foundation, Kenmore Mercy Foundation, Mercy Hospital Foundation, Mount St. Mary's Hospital Foundation, and Sisters Hospital Foundation.
Craig Harris, vice president of development for Catholic Health, will lead the new foundation. It will be overseen by a single Board of Directors with representation from each of the former foundation boards.