Initiative Raises Nearly $4,000, Reflecting Compassion and Commitment of Workforce
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Brooklyn, NY, Friday, November 21, 2025 – In response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa across several Caribbean islands, Maimonides Health has mobilized a coordinated relief effort to support affected families and communities. The initiative—developed in collaboration with the African, Black & Caribbean Business Employee Resource Group (ABC BERG), Human Resources Department and Nurse Leaders—reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting its employees and the broader community during times of crisis.
Maimonides Health is home to a large workforce with deep Caribbean roots. As news of the hurricane’s toll spread, employees across the organization expressed concern for loved ones abroad and a desire to take action.
“Our Caribbean colleagues and their families are an integral part of the Maimonides community,” said Jessica Wagner, Vice President of Nursing. “When members of our community are hurting, we come together. These efforts mirror our shared values of compassion, unity, and service.”
Bake Sale Fundraiser Brings Together the Maimonides Community
On Wednesday, November 19, the ABC BERG organized a Bake Sale Fundraiser in the main lobby of Maimonides Medical Center. Staff from all departments contributed homemade baked goods—including traditional pastries and Caribbean favorites—to raise funds for hurricane relief.
Volunteers supported the event throughout the day, fostering a spirit of unity and collective care among attendees.
“We are grateful to every employee who baked, purchased, or volunteered,” said Tonya Richards, Vice President of Human Resources and Organization Development. “Every contribution helps ensure that our Caribbean family feels supported during this challenging time.”
Ongoing Canned Goods & Toiletries Drive
In addition to the bake sale, Maimonides Health donated emergency medical supplies to the Afya Foundation and launched a Canned Goods & Toiletries Drive that will continue through the end of November. Collection stations across the Maimonides Health network have already gathered nonperishable food items, hygiene products, and essential toiletries urgently needed for recovery efforts.
All donated goods will be distributed through partner organizations providing direct assistance in impacted regions.
A Community Connected by Heritage and Compassion
Brooklyn’s vibrant Caribbean diaspora is strongly represented within Maimonides Health’s workforce. For many employees, the relief efforts are both deeply personal and a meaningful way to honor their heritage while supporting those affected abroad.
Maimonides Health will continue to monitor evolving needs in the Caribbean and explore additional avenues of support. Staff, community members, and partners are encouraged to participate and remain engaged as recovery efforts continue.
For more information or to contribute, please contact the HR Engagement & Belonging Department.
About Maimonides Health
Maimonides Health is Brooklyn’s largest healthcare system, providing more than 1 million patient visits each year through the system’s three hospitals, 1,800+ physicians, and more than 80 community-based practices and outpatient centers. Our system is anchored by Maimonides Medical Center, one of the nation’s largest independent teaching hospitals and home to centers of excellence in numerous specialties; Maimonides Midwood Community Hospital (formerly New York Community Hospital), a 130-bed adult medical–surgical hospital; and Maimonides Children’s Hospital, Brooklyn’s only children’s hospital and only pediatric trauma center.
Maimonides’ clinical programs rank among the best in the country for patient outcomes, including our Heart and Vascular Institute, Neurosciences Institute, Bone and Joint Center, and Cancer Center. For additional information, please visit www.maimo.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.