Marshall Foundation for Community Health supports the critical services that Marshall Medical Center provides, as well as other health programs available in our area. As a result of donations by philanthropic individuals and businesses, the foundation provided over $630,000 during the 2021 fiscal year, including almost $600,000 to Marshall Medical Center, strengthening the health of El Dorado County’s west slope population.
One of the many contributions made was to Marshall Cancer Service’s Patient Transportation Program, which provides gas cards or rides for cancer patients traveling to and from oncology appointments. This is the only program of its kind in El Dorado County. The program ensures that lack of transportation does not negatively impact health outcomes for cancer patients in our community. Transportation is a known barrier to healthcare nationwide, especially in rural areas. In the words of a recent patient: “Without the transportation program, I would not be able to keep my appointments for the doctor or treatments. I’m 81 years old and have difficulty getting around. The rides are a lifesaver.”
Megan Threadgill, Cancer Program Coordinator explains, “without adequate transportation, getting to and from frequent oncology appointments can be nearly impossible. A bus ride from Pollock Pines to Marshall Cancer Services in Cameron Park requires over two hours of travel, including ten minutes of walking and two transfers each way. A taxi cab would cost at least $25 one way. Low income and older patients are especially vulnerable to these logistical obstacles. Now imagine worrying about all of this when you aren’t feeling well. It is an all too familiar scenario. Since 2013, this program has provided 928 patients with 1,422 gas cards and 918 patients with 2,747 roundtrip rides.”
Megan applies for grants to sustain the Transportation Fund, housed at the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, to keep this essential service running. Jamie Johnson, Exec. Dir. of the foundation understands. “It is a simple program that makes a world of difference to the population it serves. In 2013, Thompson’s Auto Group generously donated a 2011 Chevy HHR to Marshall Cancer Services, to be used for patient transport to and from appointments. Marshall Community Volunteers take Marshall’s cancer patients to their appointments and back, but there are other costs associated with the program like maintenance, fuel and registration for example.”
In 2021, the foundation provided:
- Marshall Medical Center $590,547
- Strength For The Journey $13,650
- Mother Teresa Maternity Home $1500
- Child Advocates of El Dorado County $5000
- New Morning Youth and Family Services $4500
- 3 Strands Global $3000
- National Night Out Placerville and Camino $1000
- Emergency Medical Services Appreciation Week $2,068
- Placerville Aquatic Center $3000
- SAFE-D $1500
- Hands4Hope $6000
“Everyone experiences challenges to live a healthy life, and we see these challenges across our community. With the support of our donors and volunteer leadership, Marshall Foundation for Community Health is able to dedicate resources that help remove the barriers our fellow nonprofits and residents face. We are extremely grateful for the work these organizations are doing, and are honored to help fund their needs. A healthy community is a strong community”, added Jamie Johnson, Executive DIrector of Marshall Foundation for Community Health.
To support the Foundation and the wellbeing of the residents of the Western Slope of El Dorado County, visit marshallfound.org, or call (530) 642-9984.