
The Hospice of Chesterfield County Foundation and Lynches River Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up program have similar missions. Both provide help to those in need.
For the foundation, that mission is to help hospice patients who live in Chesterfield County. Their grants assist those patients and their caregivers with non-medical needs such as emergency utility expenses, temporary sitters, and other necessary assistance.
Cindy Beard, the foundation’s executive director, points out that the extent of those services is dependent upon the resources of the patient and the foundation.
“There are many that fall on difficult times while fighting a terminal illness,” says Beard. “If we’ve got it, we’ll help. If we don’t, we try to link them with other resources who can help.” Much of the foundation’s funds are generated by its thrift store, the Sunshine Shoppe, seasonal fundraisers such as their Trees of Celebration, and legacy gifts given in memory of deceased patients.
The foundation also receives donations from local businesses. One of the biggest supporters is Lynches River Electric, which has donated $6,000 over the last three years through its Operation Round Up program.
With Operation Round Up, members voluntarily round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar. That extra change goes into a benevolent fund that benefits fellow members in need and local non-profit organizations serving Chesterfield, Kershaw, and Lancaster counties.
“The work the Hospice of Chesterfield County Foundation is doing in our community is critical,” says Erica Shehane, Lynches River Electric’s community relations liaison. “We’re glad that we’re able to support them through Operation Round Up.”
Want to help? Need help? Contact the Hospice of Chesterfield County Foundation at (843) 623-5526.