Jefferson Healthcare Foundation will host its annual Well Hearts Luncheon online this year.

With in-person gatherings on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation’s board is still eager to celebrate healthy and happy hearts during the month of February.

“We discussed what we could do to serve our community during this very difficult time,” said Shary Irwin, president of the board for the nonprofit.

“We decided to turn our website into a source for encouragement and joy,” Irwin added. “Throughout the month of February, we’ll offer stories, tips, and activities for the care of our hearts, from exercise and reducing stress, to connecting with others and the arts.”

The fundraising event, which started five years ago, is a benefit for heart health in the community. 

Since its inception in 2014, the luncheon, catered by Chef Arran Stark, has raised $97,000 for cardiology equipment and programs at Jefferson Healthcare.

This year, all resources and activities are offered for free at jeffersonhealthcarefoundation.org, with donations gratefully accepted. 

Funds raised will support charity care for heart patients in need.

“Heart conditions and recovery don’t go away when someone loses their job or their insurance during the pandemic. In fact, stressors like these make the need for care greater than ever,” said board member Brian Vervynck. “Community involvement ensures that everyone gets the help they need.”

The foundation has a mission to “enhance the excellence of our region’s medical services through charitable contributions and community involvement.” Donations of every amount support the projects, programs, and people — patients, loved ones, and employees — of Jefferson Healthcare’s hospital and clinics.