Giving

STEP – Scholarships, Technology, Education, and Programs

The STEP Program aims to support four key areas: scholarships, technology, education, and programs. Scholarships help students and medical staff access higher education, while technology ensures access to the latest medical tools and resources. The Foundation invests in medical equipment and infrastructure to provide patients with the latest medical treatments. Education is central to the STEP program, empowering patients and families to manage their health effectively. Programs promote wellness, stress reduction, attracting and retaining top talent, reducing staff turnover, and achieving better patient outcomes. By investing in these areas, the Oneida Health Foundation STEP Program contributes to the health and well-being of the community and its future.

Cancer Care

Oneida Health offers the Cancer Care Fund for Oneida Health cancer patients undergoing treatment. This program provides emergency financial support for personal expenses, gift cards, medical bills, and insurance co-payments. Patients can apply for the Cancer Care Assistance Application, which is available online and in print form. Laurie’s Legacy, an alternative financial support program, helps breast cancer patients with transportation, prosthetics, post-surgical camisoles, wigs, wound care systems, treatment, procedures, testing, prescription co-pays, office visits, and wellness needs. The Cancer Care Fund aims to help Oneida Health patients make difficult financial choices during difficult times, allowing them to focus on recovery.

For more information on how to submit an application for the Cancer Care Fund or Laurie’s Legacy, please speak to your Oneida Health provider.

“Stay Strong” Cancer Survivorship Program

The Oneida Family YMCA and their Stay Strong Cancer Survivorship Program is run in conjunction with the Oneida Health Cancer Center, a member of the Roswell Park Care Network. With their dedicated training space and post-treatment focus, cancer patients have the opportunity to gain strength and mental focus after a life changing cancer diagnosis.

Cancer patients are referred to the Stay Strong program, which offers a 12-week YMCA membership, group classes, and weekly assessments, allowing them to work at their own pace in a dedicated space at the Y away from the general public.

YMCA members access various programs and services, including yoga, Pilates, swimming, and the Wellness and Strength Center, to help patients achieve fitness goals, build muscle mass, increase flexibility, and improve self-esteem. This program exists thanks to the YMCA and generous donations from the community.

Legacy Fund

By including a charitable bequest in your estate planning, you can ensure that your commitment to community health continues even after you’re gone. This thoughtful gesture allows you to support the Oneida Health Foundation’s initiatives that most align with your values and will make a lasting impact on the well-being of future generations.

Are You Over 70 1/2?

The Internal Revenue Service states that individual retirement arrangement (IRA) owners age 70½ or over can transfer up to $100,000 to charity tax-free each year.

These transfers, known as qualified charitable distributions or QCDs, offer eligible older Americans a great way to easily give to charity before the end of the year. And, for those who are at least 73 years old, QCDs count toward the IRA owner’s required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year.

Ask your financial advisor about a QCD, or click here to read more.

Scholarships

Oneida Health Foundation provides over $30,000 annually in scholarships for college, certification, and high school students entering the healthcare sector. The foundation believes continued support will elevate healthcare workers, increase upward mobility, and positively impact our local community and families.

Giving Tree Applications

Welcome to the 2024 Holiday Giving Tree application! This year, we want to help by providing gift cards for groceries to make your holiday meals easier, along with providing small gifts for the children of Oneida Health employees who need support. This program is only for Oneida Health employees and their children who are at home. Once you apply, we will send you more details about your request before the holidays. We hope to make your holiday season a bit brighter and more enjoyable! Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

Donate to a Family in Need

Our Foundation Director will be able to provide you with detailed information and personalized guidance based on your specific interests and goals. They can also answer any questions you may have and help you explore the various opportunities available to support our cause. If you would like to discuss your donation options, corporate sponsorships, naming options, or estate giving, please feel free to schedule an appointment with our Foundation Director for a more in-depth and personal discussion.