COLUMBIA, Tenn. — Employees, physicians and volunteers at Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) and Lewis Health Center (LHC) once again spread holiday cheer to local school children through the annual Holiday Hugs gift program.
Originally called Christmas Steps, the Holiday Hugs program started in 1999 with Maury Regional Health facilities partnering with local school systems. Since its inception, the Holiday Hugs program has provided more than 11,000 gifts to children in need. This year, the program continued its legacy of generosity with 505 gifts collected at MRMC for Maury County Public Schools and 31 at LHC for Lewis County Schools, ensuring children received items like coats, sweaters and other winter clothing to stay warm this holiday season.
“We are truly blessed to have the annual Maury Regional Holiday Hugs program,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent Lisa Ventura. “The continued support from Maury Regional’s employees and volunteers makes an incredible impact on the lives of our families, and we are so grateful.”
MRH’s Volunteer Services Department works with the school systems each year to identify children in need at the districts’ elementary and middle schools. Gifts are collected, organized and delivered to each school with the help of MRH’s Supply Chain and Facility Services Departments as well as other team members and volunteers.
“Giving is the reason for the season and the Holiday Hugs program is one of the many ways we can give back to our community,” said Cindy Short, director of Volunteer Services. “This effort would not be possible without the teamwork of our employees and volunteers, and we thank everyone who helped make this year’s program a success.”
Holiday Hugs is one of the many seasonal giving initiatives across the Maury Regional Health system. Wayne Medical Center (WMC) employees collected gifts through the Angel Tree program, helping a total of 15 children. Marshall Medical Center (MMC) participated in Foster Care Christmas for foster children of Marshall County, donating a total of 129 gifts for children and also participated in a nursing home Angel Tree program, providing a total of 31 gifts for seniors. Lastly, MMC held a food drive where staff donated canned goods to Hope Town.
“The holidays remind us of the power of community and generosity, and it’s a privilege to give,” said CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “It’s heartwarming to know we can provide joy and support to families in our communities. We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season from Maury Regional Health!”
