On Thursday, May 23rd, 2019, more than 300 guests gathered in support of the agencies of Home Health Foundation, and to honor our heroic leaders in the community as well as celebrate a decade of caring at High Pointe House at the 8th Annual Legacy of Leading recognition dinner.
This year’s event honored Lawrence Community Responders, individuals from across the community who took immediate action during the gas explosion crises that severely struck the surrounding areas. Honorees include Daniel Rivera, Mayor of Lawrence, Chief Brian Moriarty, of the Lawrence Fire Department, Kim Moriarty, RN, Director of Emergency Services at Lawrence General Hospital, Martha Valez, Executive Director of the Lawrence Senior Center, and Officer Ivan Soto of the Lawrence Police Department. In addition, High Pointe House, the hospice and palliative care residence of Merrimack Valley Hospice, was recognized for a decade of compassionate care, and paid tribute to the staff and volunteers for their unwavering dedication to the dignity and comfort of patients and families.
“In their selfless efforts, these Lawrence Community Responders proved their ongoing commitment to better support the community during this difficult time,” shared Donna Beaudin, Vice President of Quality, Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance. “I was struck by the historic significance of this event and the amazing spirit of the people. Communities helped communities. Neighbors helped neighbors – and the resilience of the people of this region endured.”
“High Pointe House is an example of what can happen with a dream, a committed team, hard work and most importantly, the support of the community.” said Karen Gomes, President and CEO of Home Health Foundation. “It was ten years ago that our Hospice House opened. Since then, thousands of patients of every age have passed through our doors seeking refuge. All are welcomed by a compassionate staff who are completely focused on the care of the patient and the support of the family.”
The event raised more than $80,000 in support of programs dedicated to assisting the patients and families served by Home Health VNA and Merrimack Valley Hospice.
Our 2019 Honorees
High Pointe House
A Decade of Compassion
This year marks the 10th anniversary of High Pointe House, the hospice and palliative care residence of Merrimack Valley Hospice. This milestone honors the commitment of the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to enhance the end-of-life journey for patients, provide unwavering support to their families and serve the entire community by offering a place of dignity, comfort and peace.
Lawrence Community Responders
Representing the Enduring Spirit of the Community
In the aftermath of the 2018 Merrimack Valley gas explosions and fires, individuals from across the community took action in force. These community responders, and many others, worked without fanfare to help those in need during this unprecedented event. Their passion and caring for this community came through loud and clear and continues today.
| Daniel Rivera Mayor - City of Lawrence | Brian Moriarty Fire Chief - City of Lawrence |
| Kim Moriarty, RN Director of Emergency Services Lawrence General Hospital | Martha Velez Executive Director - Lawrence Senior Center |
| Ivan Soto Police Officer - City of Lawrence |
For more information about this event, please contact Erin Masterson at (978) 552-4188 or emasterson@homehealthfoundation.org