Charity trust bankrolls 50 beds at COVID-19 clinic
A $365,000 donation will fund 50 new beds at the former Geelong Private Hospital as the region’s fight against the coronavirus ramps up.
The contribution from the Percy Baxter Charitable Trust comes as 10 people have been diagnosed with the virus in the region.
Barwon Health Foundation executive director Zoe Waters said the donation would help the foundation in its aim to raise $1 million.
“This wonderful contribution … will assist Barwon Foundation’s Coronavirus Emergency Response Fund with the aim to raise an initial target of $1 million to fund the urgent need for clinic and operating theatre fit-outs, vital medical equipment and supplies, co-ordinating volunteers, supporting our healthcare staff, infectious diseases and research teams,” Ms Waters said.
“Most importantly it will provide additional care for our most vulnerable as the region battles the coronavirus pandemic.”
Barwon Health chief executive Frances Diver said: “This generous donation, together with core funding announcements of the state and federal governments last week, will support our response to expanding services and facilities for the community.”
John Percy Hamilton Baxter, who died in Geelong in 1954, was active in charitable work before the Second World War.
A petition has called for the reopening of the former Geelong Private Hospital to aid in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Donations can be made to the Barwon Health Foundation at barwonhealthfoundation.org.au or by calling 4215 8900.