McDonough Power Cooperative Assists Communities with PPE Funding
McDonough Power Cooperative Board of Directors met remotely for their regularly scheduled monthly board meeting in March to discuss cooperative business. Among the items discussed included how to assist those organizations which are being directly affected by the Coronavirus outbreak. It was decided by the Board of Directors to donate $2,500 to the McDonough County Health Department and another $2,500 to the Warren County Health Department to help replenish Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which is in high demand due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
These donations were made through McDonough Power Cooperatives Cares Fund, which is a benevolent program funded through the sale of scrap wire and metal no longer needed by the Cooperative and by personal donations made by those affiliated with the organization.
Both organizations stated that they are very appreciative of the donations, which will allow them to supplement what is received from the state of Illinois and help them stay prepared during the fight against COVID-19.
“Many community agencies are experiencing a need for additional PPE resources during this COVID-19 pandemic, or foresee the coming need for such,” stated Stefanie Johnson of the McDonough County Health Department. “In McDonough County this includes, but is not limited to: McDonough District Hospital, Lifeguard Ambulance Services (EMS), McDonough County Sheriff, Macomb Fire Department, Illinois State Police District 14, Macomb Police Department, WIU Office of Public Safety, as well as various county nursing homes and long-term care facilities.”
Jenna Link Administrator of the Warren County Health Department indicated that much like McDonough County, Warren county is providing PPE supplies to many of the agencies in their area as well. She also added that they have been providing supplies to county coroners and funeral homes who have also had to adapt to changes in their protocol.
Both county Emergency Services and Disaster Agencies have begun distributing PPE supplies. “The McDonough County Health Department is awaiting PPE distributions from state PPE supplies,” reported Johnson. “We have received small donations of masks, gloves, and wipes from several local businesses. As PPE supplies come in, requests will be filled as completely as those supplies on-hand will allow.”
McDonough Power Cooperative is appreciative of the services these organizations provide to the communities we serve and is proud to be able to help out in this time of need.