The Sterling Insurance Company stepped up in a big way for Cobleskill Regional Hospital.
The Cobleskill insurance firm donated $125,000 to the hospital for its Emergency Department renovation that started last week.
The donation, announced by the Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network, formally kicked off a fundraising campaign for the project.
"We are proud to be a part of the continued growth and improvement of our local hospital," said Stephen Harris, Sterling president and CEO.
"As Schoharie County's only hospital, Cobleskill Regional is critical to the quality of life for individuals and families who reside here."
The goal of the campaign is to raise $1 million to support the ED renovation, which has a total cost of $6 million.
The Emergency Department has not received any major upgrades since its construction in the 1970s.
The planned project will improve access for patients and ambulances, add new emergency technology and increase patient privacy.
More than 2,000 square feet will be added to the current department, resulting in eight new private treatment rooms, a new patient and family waiting area and better space for staff and equipment needs.
Pre-project preparation work is complete, and the Emergency Department parking level has been closed off for the renovation.
Detour signs mark the modified parking patterns for patients and visitors, and there will be no interruption to emergency services at any time during the renovation, which is expected to be finished next summer.
"The Emergency Department renovation at CRH is an exciting project," said Eric Stein, hospital president and CEO.
"The community is extremely supportive of the great work at the hospital, and the improvements planned for the ED will have a great impact on the services Cobleskill's skilled staff can provide."
And donations like Sterling's are essential, Mr. Stein added.
"We are very grateful to Stephen Harris and Sterling Insurance for this very generous donation and support of this important cause."
CRH is now celebrating its 20th year of being affiliated with Bassett Healthcare.
Sterling Insurance has been providing insurance to Cobleskill and surrounding communities since its founding 1895.