WCMS Receives $10,000 NOW Grant from WNC Bridge Foundation to Support Mental Health Resources for WNC Medical Providers
The Western Carolina Medical Society (WCMS) is honored to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 NOW Grant from the WNC Bridge Foundation to support WCMS’ Healthy Healer Program. This funding will provide essential mental health resources for healthcare professionals in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The Healthy Healer Program is designed to offer wellness tools and mental health services to medical providers, many of whom are experiencing significant personal and professional stress following the hurricane. This grant will allow WCMS to ensure that healthcare providers can access the care they need during this challenging time.
“Medical providers have been on the front lines, not only dealing with the physical aftermath of Hurricane Helene but also managing the emotional toll it has taken on their lives and the lives of their patients,” said Karen Wallace-Meigs, Executive Director of WCMS. “With this NOW grant from the WNC Bridge Foundation, we can enhance the reach of our Healthy Healer Program and provide the mental health support our healthcare professionals need and deserve.”
Hurricane Helene has brought unprecedented challenges to Western North Carolina, and the healthcare sector has been deeply affected. The Healthy Healer Program offers confidential counseling, peer support networks, and mindfulness resources tailored to the unique pressures medical providers face.
“WNC Bridge Foundation is proud to award a NOW Grant – Hurricane Helene Relief to WCMS. We are committed to supporting organizations like WCMS as they provide essential services and resources to individuals affected by the storm. We hope that NOW Grants will be a valuable resource for organizations across the 18 counties, offering critical funding to assist with immediate relief efforts,” said WNC Bridge Foundation Grant Officer Natalie Clark. NOW grants are designed to uplift those in need and empower local organizations to recover and rebuild, ensuring no one is left behind during this crucial recovery period.
About the WNC Bridge Foundation
The WNC Bridge Foundation exists to connect communities to a healthier future and to create lasting change through local partnerships. Their efforts are focused on expanding access and equity for vulnerable populations in our communities.
As an organization, they have been rooted in this community since 2003, when they began as CarePartners Foundation. In January 2019, they became WNC Bridge Foundation, broadening their focus to serve as a catalyst for positive change throughout the 18 counties we serve in WNC. They are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization; contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
About The Western Carolina Medical Society
The Western Carolina Medical Society’s mission is to advocate for healthy communities, increase access to affordable healthcare, fight health inequities, and promote wellness in WNC. Since 1885, WCMS has been respected for its leadership and innovation in addressing issues of access to affordable health care, disparities in health, and wellness promotion. Throughout its history, WCMS has been at the forefront of working collaboratively with area organizations to address the health challenges facing our community’s residents.
