Filling Hearts and Plates: A Successful Year for the APWU Health Plan Virtual Food Drive

Every year, I’m proud to lead the APWU Health Plan in our annual Virtual Food Drive for the Maryland Food Bank. This year was no different. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our employees, we’re able to make a real difference in the lives of countless Marylanders facing hunger.

The Maryland Food Bank is a vital resource in our community. They focus an incredible 90% of their efforts on securing and distributing food to those in need. In 2023 alone, they distributed a staggering 41 million meals! Every dollar donated allows them to purchase food wholesale, maximizing their impact. This means that with your contribution, literally every dollar goes towards putting a meal on someone’s table.

This year’s Virtual Food Drive ran from June 3rd to June 28th.I’m thrilled to announce that we’ve raised nearly two thousand dollars.The dedication and compassion of our employees at APWU Health Plan continues to amaze me. Together, we’re making a tangible difference in the fight against hunger.

While the official drive window has closed, the need for food assistance remains constant. If you’d still like to contribute, you can visit the Maryland Food Bank’s website at https://mdfoodbank.org/about/contact-us/ to make a secure online donation.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Virtual Food Drive. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier Maryland for all.

World Blood Donor Day  is June 14, 2024!

Every year on June 14th, we celebrate World Blood Donor Day! This year marks the 20th anniversary, a fantastic opportunity to thank all the incredible blood donors who give the gift of life.

Blood transfusions are essential for a variety of medical procedures, from surgeries and accidents to treatments for chronic illnesses. The constant need for safe blood supplies means regular donations are crucial.

Why Donate Blood?

Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to help others. Here are just a few reasons to consider becoming a donor:

  • Saves Lives: Your blood donation can help someone in a critical situation, from a car accident victim to a cancer patient.
  • Feels Great: Knowing you’ve helped someone in need can be a truly rewarding experience.
  • Quick and Easy: The donation process itself usually only takes about an hour, with most of that time spent resting afterward.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in World Blood Donor Day:

  • Donate Blood: Find a local blood drive happening near you. Many organizations host drives throughout the year.
  • Spread Awareness: Talk to friends and family about the importance of blood donation. Share information on social media using the hashtag #WorldBloodDonorDay.
  • Volunteer: Blood banks and donation centers often rely on volunteers to help with various tasks.

Be a Hero. Donate Blood.

Make a difference in someone’s life this World Blood Donor Day. Visit https://www.hhs.gov/givingequalsliving/giveblood/start-donating to find a blood drive near you and learn more about eligibility requirements.

Additional Resources:

Family Health & Fitness Day is June 8th!

Family Health & Fitness Day is coming up on Saturday, June 8th, 2024. This national event, celebrated every second Saturday of June, is all about highlighting the power of parks and recreation in keeping our communities healthy and active.

Parks and recreation agencies across the country are gearing up to celebrate. They’ll be sharing all sorts of fun ways for families to get moving, whether it’s joining a virtual fitness program at home or heading to your local park for some outdoor fun.

This is a great opportunity to get everyone in your family involved, regardless of age or fitness level. Need some ideas on how to celebrate Family Health & Fitness Day? Here’s a short list of ideas.

  • Enjoy your Local Trails: Take your family for a walk, hike or bike ride on your local park trails.
  • Plan a Family Picnic: Host a family picnic in your local park
  • Connect with Nature: Free up time in your day to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.
  • Visit a Park Playground: Enjoy the natural play space and fresh air with your family
  • Play sports: Participating in team sports is a great way to socialize with neighbors

Family Health & Fitness Day is a reminder that being active doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s about spending quality time with loved ones while doing something good for your bodies and minds. There are endless ways to celebrate. So, get outside and make some memories!

Celebrating the Heroes of Healthcare: Happy National Nurses Day!

Every year, on May 6th, we celebrate National Nurses Day – a dedicated day to honor the contributions of nurses to our healthcare system and society as a whole.

More Than Just Caregivers: Essential Healthcare Partners

Nurses are the backbone of the medical field. They work tirelessly across various settings, from bustling emergency rooms to serene hospice care. They are the first line of contact for patients, offering comfort, expertise, and unwavering support throughout their healthcare journey.

Our APWU Health Plan members can call our 24 hour confidential nurse line, 1-866-873-8738 to speak confidentially with a nurse by phone.

Celebrating Their Strength

The past few years have been particularly challenging for nurses, who have bravely faced unprecedented health crises.  They have worked long hours, under immense pressure, putting their own well-being at risk to care for others.  On National Nurses Day, I want to acknowledge their strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication.

This National Nurses Day, I’d like to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all the nurses here at the APWU Health Plan and in the community who dedicate their lives to caring for others. I want to acknowledge the long hours they work, the emotional challenges they face, and the unwavering commitment they display every single day.

How You Can Celebrate National Nurses Day

·         Here are a few ways you can show your appreciation to the nurses in your life:

  • Send a heartfelt card or note expressing your gratitude.
  • Share your positive experiences with a nurse on social media using #NationalNursesDay.
  • Donate to a scholarship fund supporting future nurses.
  • Simply say “thank you” to a nurse you encounter today.

Nurses are truly the unsung heroes of healthcare. Let’s celebrate their dedication and ensure they feel valued and appreciated every day, not just on National Nurses Day