Bend, Oregon: Healthcare workers account for about one in ten COVID-19 infections in Oregon. They’re the most likely to get exposed, and that puts their families, roommates, and loved ones at risk too. To acknowledge frontline healthcare workers, GreenSavers and partners awarded free ENERGY STAR® certified American Standard Silver 16 Low Profile Air Conditioners, valued at $5,500 each, to three healthcare workers who have gone above and beyond in the fight against COVID-19.
“As if dealing with COVID weren’t enough, it was that much harder for healthcare workers who lost sleep because of the heat and smoke last summer,” says Robert Hamerly, Principal at GreenSavers. “We wanted to do our part to help them be at their best.”
Out of 25 nominated healthcare professionals, GreenSavers chose three winners:
- Julie O’Neil, Registered Nurse at St. Charles Health System
- Beth Steen, Circulating Nurse at St. Charles Health System
- Joel Madrone, Licensed Practical Nurse at Sunnyside Medical Center
Video Interview: Watch the inspiring interview with Joel and his wife Alisha, who have a combined 34 years of healthcare experience: greensavers.com/articles/
About the Awards: In addition to considering the service of patient-facing healthcare workers, such as physicians, nurses, emergency responders, and supporting staff, the GreenSavers Awards Committee also considered:
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Financial needs: Could the recipient afford a central AC system without the award?
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Building needs: Does the recipient’s home already have central air conditioning?
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Disadvantaged populations: Part of a historically disadvantaged population?
