Valley Health Services Receives Community Foundation Grant to Enhance Food Service Amenities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            

July 18, 2023

Contact: Gabrielle Argo, Director of Public Relations

Tel. (607) 431-5009 | gabrielle.argo@aofmh.org

Herkimer, N.Y. – Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that Valley Health Services (VHS) in Herkimer has received a grant from the Wesley and Marion Small Fund of The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties. The $7,500 grant will help fund the purchase of a Camduction Complete Heat System, which is designed to retain the temperature of foods being served bedside in a healthcare facility. The quality and safety of the meals are maintained by the unit.

“On behalf of our residents, we are very thankful for the meal-enhancing equipment we are able to acquire,” said Bryan Ehlinger, Administrator of VHS. “The Community Foundation’s Senior Grant Award supports the vision of Valley Health Services to promote an optimal quality of life for older adults.” 

In the grant application, VHS stated that it “strives to provide quality, person-centered care promoting health and quality of life. Palatable meals are essential to the enjoyment and wellbeing of our residents. In a nursing home setting, the food service program is more than a way to provide nourishment, but a highlighted experience.”

Valley Health Services is a 160-bed long-term care and rehabilitation facility offering inpatient and outpatient services. VHS has been a major healthcare provider and vital community asset in Herkimer, New York since its founding in 1984. It is a corporately affiliated member of Bassett Healthcare Network.

As stated on its website: “The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all.” The site continues: “Community foundations across the country represent and support specific geographic areas by pooling donations, creating permanently endowed funds to address current and future community needs through nonprofit organizations’ work.” 

More information about Valley Health Services is available here.