Holy Cross Health plans to renovate the Emergency Department at its Silver Spring hospital, with a $2.5 million donation from the Nora Roberts Foundation contributing to the funding.
The hospital system announced in a press release that it plans to address overcrowding and improve care for behavioral health patients and seniors. The renovation, expected to cost over $25 million, aims to create a more supportive environment that enhances efficiency, communication, and specialized care.
“The timing of this support is omniscient,” Holy Cross Health President & CEO Dr. Norvell V. Coots said. “This substantial $2.5 million gift from the Nora Roberts Foundation is a testament to the incredible impact we are making in our community. We have seen a 20% increase in emergency department visits over the past year alone. Now, more than ever, we must continue fulfilling our plans to grow our network of services. I applaud our team for their resilience in the face of change and dedication to providing compassionate care to our patients.”
Jason Aufdem-Brinke, representing the Nora Roberts Foundation, expressed excitement about the partnership. “We believe in making a real and tangible difference in our communities. By supporting Holy Cross Health’s mission to innovate and enhance the patient experience, we are not only transforming healthcare, but impacting and improving lives. It’s an honor to serve in this way.”
In addition to the Emergency Department renovation, Holy Cross said that the hospital system is making improvements to its cancer care services, including the introduction of advanced radiation therapy at its 31,000-square-foot facility. This technology, known as Varian Edge, helps to target cancer more effectively and is exclusive to Holy Cross in Montgomery County.
The Silver Spring-based nonprofit is also planning for the continued growth of its Germantown hospital alongside the ongoing emergency room renovations.
Alisa Smallwood, CFRE, chief development officer at Holy Cross Health, added, “We are deeply grateful for the commitment of the Nora Roberts Foundation. This partnership reveals they too are optimistic about our capacity to make impactful, large-scale change in healthcare.”
Holy Cross Health opened a new primary care practice last month at The Leggett senior apartment community in downtown Silver Spring.
Photo Courtesy of Holy Cross Health