Kaplan family donates $5 million to project, largest donation received by the hospital
Rome Health welcomed major donors and members of the community to its groundbreaking ceremony for its new addition for surgical services and intensive care.
The Nov. 29 event marked the kick-off of the public phase of Rome Health Foundation’s capital campaign to support surgical services and intensive care.
“The $45.7 million capital project will enhance the experience for patients and their families while supporting the care team in delivering the best care out there here,” said Rome Health President and Chief Executive Officer AnneMarie Czyz.
The project involves constructing a 30,000 square-foot, three-floor addition on the north side of the hospital, which will allow the hospital to replace its aging operating rooms and intensive care units.
“Rome Health engaged King + King Architects and the Hayner Hoyt Corporation to design and construct a state-of-the-art facility that is easily accessible for patients and families and reflects the quality of care we deliver,” said Chief Operating Officer Ryan Thompson.
The project is being funded through a partnership of more than $29 million in public funding and private philanthropy, including a $26 million New York State Transformation Grant and $3 million in ARPA funds from the City of Rome.
With the ceremonial ground breaking, the Rome Health Foundation is kicking off the public phase of its capital campaign, which has already raised more than $14.2 million towards its $16.5 million goal.
“Rome Health Foundation is humbled by the support of nearly 200 donors to date,” said Rome Health Foundation Executive Director Chester W. DiBari III. “We are pleased to announce that the Center for Surgical Services will be named in honor of the Kaplan family for their generous support. Their $5 million gift is the largest donation Rome Health has ever received and continues to inspire others to pledge their support.”
The Kaplan Center for Surgical Services is named in honor of Charles and Florence Kaplan.
“Rome Health has served an important role in our community for over 100 years. I know first-hand how convenient it is for us to have quality care located in our own backyard. Florence and I are proud to ensure Rome Health may begin a new chapter with a modern, state-of-the-art facility for surgical services. I have watched the Mohawk Valley grow and evolve, and I am happy to help Rome Health do the same,” said Charles Kaplan.
In addition to the gift from the Kaplans, the foundation has received leadership gifts from the Hinman family, the Griffin Charitable Foundation and an anonymous donor who all believe in the vision for the new ICU and the Kaplan Center for Surgical Services.