As the confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Suffolk County surpasses 1,000
(1,007 confirmed cases as of March 22), Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital (ELIH) is holding a personal protective equipment (PPE) donation drive in an effort to stay ahead of the demand.
"Throughout the hospital's history, our community never wavered in their commitment to sustain our day-to-day operations," said Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital CAO,
Paul Connor.
The Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital Community Relations Department will be collecting the donations, which will be passed along to Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital. Accepted items include Face shields, N95 3M 1860 masks, protective eyewear, goggles, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and other supplies necessary for the staff's safety. The PPE donations will be utilized as medical personnel interact with possible (PUI) and known COVID-19 patients.
Donations can be made in-person or via mail. If the donor plans on delivering the items, scheduling an appointment to drop them off must be made.
"There is no better example of this dedication than the added extra willingness that our local businesses and residents have shown with their unwavering support," Connor noted.
Those that have medical supplies that are in unopened boxes or comfort care items that they would like to donate should contact Linda Sweeney, Vice President Foundation/External Affairs or Administration, at 631-477-5164 or 631-477-5100 to arrange a drop off time and location.
Additionally, ELIH Foundation has launched a COVID-19 Action Fund.
"During this COVID-19 crisis, the ELIH Foundation wishes you good health to you and your loved ones. Now is the time to reflect on your own well-being and to work together as a community to seek solutions and the eventual return to normalcy,"
Paul J. Connor III, Chief Administrative Officer, and Paul J. Romanelli, Chairman, ELIH Foundation, said in an email about the Action Fund. "There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading Coronavirus. We encourage you to visit the website
www.cdc.gov to learn how to protect yourself and the steps to take if you believe you are ill."
"Meanwhile in Greenport, the incredible staff of SBELIH (and we mean the ENTIRE staff) is working diligently to serve our patients and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. And just as hard-working, let's not forget the hundreds of volunteers in our East End fire and rescue departments and the paramedical services of Stony Brook Medical EMS first responders. They are inspiring examples of what collaborative efforts, patience, and compassion can accomplish," Connor and Romanelli continued. "Considering the current situation, the ELIH Foundation has established the COVID-19 ACTION FUND to raise
capital for vital hospital equipment and hospital staff support. You and this community can take action to support our initiatives to combat Coronavirus."
"We recognize and truly appreciate your past generosity to SBELIH. Your donations have made a positive impact on the lives and well-being of others in our community. During this difficult time, we need you more than ever. While the COVID-19 situation is temporary, our commitment to the hospital's growth and development is unwavering," Connor and Romanelli said. "We continue to respond to the evolving needs of the community both in our Emergency Department and inpatient units by developing 'surge' plans to increase capacity."
Donations will be utilized to support SBELIH's tireless medical staff, secure essential medical equipment, and support patients.
"The SBELIH staff are modern day heroes, working tirelessly to provide the very best care. Your donation to the COVID-19 ACTION FUND will make an immediate, positive impact to our hospital, staff and patients. We invite you to consider a generous contribution by
clicking here. Then, please share this message with as many others as possible. Encourage them to contribute as well. Let us begin a more positive form of viral communication," Connor and Romanelli concluded. "Please be assured that our fundraising events will continue. We will keep you apprised of changes or postponements in our schedule as appropriate."
For more information, visit elih.stonybrookmedicine.edu.
Nicole is the Editor-in-Chief of Hamptons.com where she focuses on lifestyle, nightlife, and mixology. She grew up in the Hamptons and currently resides in Water Mill. 
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