Meridian Provides Hospice Alternative Power Source

Media Release for immediate use 12 August 2008

Meridian Grant Provides Hospice Alternative Power Source

The North Haven Hospice in Whangarei has purchased a much needed back-up power generator, thanks to a $6000 sponsorship from Meridian.

The generator was purchased from Rawene Hospital which upgraded its existing generator following an expansion of the hospital building.

North Haven Hospice General Manager Helen Blaxland says the new generator will provide significant benefits for patients.

“At the hospice we try to make our patients as comfortable as possible and provide a stress free environment for their families. For this reason, it is vital that we have an alternative power source available in case of a power outage,” she says.

“Previously, we relied on a battery backup which allowed only two hours of minimal lighting. Having a generator will mean our patients will continue to get the care they require. This is particularly important for patients who require oxygen to breathe,” she added.

Helen Blaxland says the hospice would not have been able to purchase the generator without the help of Meridian.

“As we are a Hospice, which relies heavily on donated funds to meet operating costs, we were unable to raise the funds necessary to purchase a new generator on our own so for Meridian to finance the purchase of the generator was incredibly generous and the support they have given us over the years has been invaluable.”

North Haven Hospice cares for terminally ill people in the Northland area and serves a population of around 170,000. The Hospice has a five bed inpatient facility and cares for approximately 80-100 people in the community at any one time.

Meridian has been the principal sponsor of North Haven Hospice since 1999.

Kay Eade, Meridian’s Sponsorship Co-ordinator, says Meridian is proud to play its part in making sure North Haven Hospice is able to continue to provide an important and compassionate service to the people of Northland.

“North Haven Hospice does a wonderful job by helping to improve quality of life by providing comfort, dignity and respect to people in their final days, so it is a service that we are more than happy to support,” she added.

Recently, Meridian used its expertise in energy efficiency to help the Hospice reduce its running costs by conducting an energy audit, which resulted in extra ceiling insulation, draft-proofing and developing an Energy Action Plan for the Hospice.

Meridian also sponsors the Hospice’s main fund-raising event, their annual Gala – a highlight of the Whangarei social calendar.

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