Over half a million raised in Knapp challenge

Long Island Community Hospital has raised over $550,000 toward its $1,000,000 goal for the Knapp Family COVID-19 Health Crisis Challenge within 10 days of announcing the campaign. The matching grant is made possible by the Knapp-Swezey Foundation, Island Outreach Foundation and Gardener Foundation to help raise vital funding for the community hospital in their fight against COVID-19.

“The outpouring of support has been humbling, to say the least. In a short time, our community has donated over $275,000, which has been generously matched by the Knapp family to reach over $550,000,” said Richard T. Margulis, president and chief executive officer at LI Community Hospital. “Protecting our staff and responding to our patients needs during this crisis remain the top priority, especially as we see high numbers holding steady, and the Knapp Family COVID-19 Challenge is helping us meet these needs.”

On April 8, the Knapp family announced that they would match every donation, dollar for dollar, up to $500,000 to directly purchase vital personal protective equipment, supplies and other items necessary to keep health care professionals safe during this pandemic. These purchases are ongoing and include masks, gowns, eyewear and other protective gear in high demand.

“These past few weeks have been extraordinary for us all. Everyone has been touched by this virus. It knows no boundaries. Long Island Community Hospital is bracing for the wave, and if we don’t give now, in the midst of the pandemic, then when?” added Michele Knapp, board member at LI Community Hospital and chair of the Knapp Family COVID-19 Health Crisis Challenge. “We need to all become part of the solution in this unprecedented time.”

With the number of COVID-19 cases in Suffolk County surpassing 25,000 and growing, LI Community Hospital has transformed the hospital to meet increased demand. In response to the influx of COVID-19 patients over the past few days and weeks, the entire hospital staff is working diligently to meet the needs of vulnerable patients while protecting front-line health care professionals.

“In the midst of this crisis, it’s truly overwhelming to see that generosity shines through. Now, more than ever, we need the support of our community and our community has responded,” added Margulis.

The Knapp family implores you to join in the fight against COVID-19 and help us save lives today. To make a donation, please visit www.licom- munityhospital.org and click on “Giving To Our Hospital” or call 631.654.7708.