Living the Mission:
Providence Health System Kicks Off Hurricane Relief Drive

Aug. 31, 2005

Portland, Ore. – Providence Health System in Oregon today announced an employee, physician and volunteer fundraising drive with matching donations to help hurricane victims in the Gulf Coast.

“The stories and scenes from Louisiana, Mississippi and the entire disaster area are heartbreaking - such devastation and destruction is all but impossible to comprehend,” said Russ Danielson, chief executive, Providence Health System – Oregon. “We watch and grieve with the people in the Gulf Coast and will work tirelessly together to comfort and assist them as part of our Providence mission to reach out to those in need.”

To help respond to the dire needs, Providence Health System in Oregon will receive donations from employees, physicians, staff and volunteers at each major facility in Oregon. Providence will then match all employee donations.  The combined funds will be sent to Catholic Charities USA, which is working on the scene of the disaster.

In addition, Providence Health Plans is making a $25,000 donation on behalf of the entire health system to support the crisis relief efforts.

News Contact:
Gary Walker                             Sara Wurfel
503-215-7567                          503-216-7190
gary.walker@providence.org    sara.wurfel@providence.org

Providence Health System in Oregon, ranked as the second most integrated health care system in the nation, offers a comprehensive array of health and education services through its seven hospitals, medical clinics, health plans, long-term care facilities and home health services. With nearly 14,000 employees, Providence is the state’s second-largest private employer.