Pines Kicks Off National Health Center Week 2018 With Hosting 1st Annual Elementary School Supply Drive

Caribou, Maine – As the new school year unfolds, it is estimated that the average family will spend close to $500 on back-to-school supplies and clothing. Pines Health Services school supply drive’s mission was to help bridge a portion of the gap between what families can afford and what students need.

“Just like good health, having the right school supplies will help get children off on the right foot for a successful school year ahead. The Pines team was absolutely thrilled and excited to be able to help out for such a worthy cause,” said Lisa Caron, Chief Operating Officer at Pines.

“This year’s drive allowed us to deliver eight 72 gallon totes, filled to the top, to various elementary schools in the areas we serve. This included Caribou, Presque Isle, Fort Fairfield, Washburn, Woodland, Connor and Van Buren. It truly was a fun collection and we are already looking forward to next year’s drive,” said Caron.

National Health Center Week 2018 was held August 12th to the 18th and is an annual celebration with the goal of raising awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s Health Centers. Health centers across the Country serve close to 27 million patients, a number that continues to grow as there is an increase in demand for affordable primary care. In addition to their long history as health care homes to millions, health centers produce innovative solutions to the most pressing health care issues in their communities and reach beyond the walls of conventional medicine.

“As a Community Health Center, Pines is always looking for ways to improve health, economic and emotional wellbeing of children and families in the areas we serve. It is always rewarding to be able to give back to our patients when we can,“ said Casey Bouchard, Communications & Community Relations for Pines Health Services and Cary Medical Center. “One of our local principal’s said that receiving the tote of supplies was like “Christmas morning.” That statement alone reaffirmed our vision behind the school supply drive and without the unparalleled generosity of the Pines team and the community, we would not have been able to deliver this sweet surprise,” said Bouchard.