Martha T. Berry Foundation continues efforts to help those in need
They represented a variety of walks of life. Business owners, lawyers, doctors, nurses, first responders, elected officials and community activists.
Some 320 gathered in mid-October at Zuccaro’s, a premiere banquet facility in Chesterfield Township, for an evening of fun, raffle games and a well-prepared dinner.
Judging from the tickets placed in the raffle baskets and the purchases of a limited number of boxed gifts with a guarantee of winning, it was an enjoyable evening for all.
But more importantly, it was an opportunity to support the Martha T. Berry Medical Care Facility, the only government-operated facility of its kind in the tri-county area.
It provides nursing services and medical treatment for the neediest, frail and elderly.
Although it has been updated and expanded over the years, Mount Clemens
based Martha T. Berry MCF has been providing care for both low income and those in need of long-term care since 1950.
Construction was made possible from the estate of Dr. Henry G. Berry, who often cared for poor senior citizens.
He named the facility after his late wife. It can now care for up to 217 residents.
The October 19 fundraiser was officially the “Martha T. Berry Foundation 6th Annual Awards Dinner.”
Patrick Simasko, a local attorney, received the Dr. Henry G. Berry Leadership Award. Simasko is the current chair of the foundation board and has been involved in raising funds for a decade.
Laurie Fullerton, a certified nurse assistant and an activities assistant, was given the Shining Star Award.
Her peers noted her gentleness and kindness to residents.
The Unsung Hero
Award was presented to Ginger Yahner. She was praised for her “steady calmness and incredible organization skills.”
The Martha T. Berry Foundation, which raises funds to support residents and the facility, was also marking its 10th anniversary.
“It has been and continues to be a wonderful journey as we continue to increase our ability to serve and enhance the lives of the residents of Martha T. Berry,” wrote Susan Burkhardt in the program.
Burkhardt serves as vice-chair of the Foundation board and was the event chairperson.
“I know that we can continue to grow the work of the Foundation and the difference we can make in the lives of those that need our help,” she said.
She didn’t need to convince the more than 300 in attendance who helped raise $44,000 in a single night.