Friendship Staff Raise Funds for Team Member
When dining Director Chris Eanes was diagnosed with kidney failure, he had to go through dialysis treatments that were costly and physically exhausting. As the dialysis costs piled up, Eanes said, “I was kind of in a hole. It was hard enough to come in to work for those40 hours a week after (dialysis). Finding a second job to help pay for it was nearly impossible.” That’s when he turned to Friendship’s Friendship Employee Emergency Fund.
The Friendship Employee Emergency Fund was established to help our team members who face sudden financial crises due to medical emergencies, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. When a team member faces an unexpected challenge that arises through no fault of their own, they can apply for funds that act as a crucial safety net to help them in their time of need. We believe that supporting our team members and investing in their future creates a stronger, more resilient community. We are committed to uplifting those who dedicate their time and talents to caring for others.
Eanes said, “It took the burden not only off me, but also my family, for having to worry about it.”
Helping our team mates is more than financial aid, it’s a reflection of a community that truly cares. Donations from fellow residents, staff, and supporters fuel the fund, creating a safety net woven from compassion and solidarity.
His experience helped him better relate as a caregiver to Friendship Assisted Living residents and as a team member at Friendship. Eanes said, “There are several residents that were also dealing with kidney failure at that time and doing dialysis. I could relate to them and help them and make better decisions at the dining table. Going through the entire experience really brings the Friendship community together for me as a family. It’s a really nice feeling to be able to come to work for a family that takes care of their own.”
This May through July, we’re raising money for this fund and we’re inviting our team members, residents and friends to support the Friendship Emergency Fund learn more about how you can give at https://www.friendship.us/explore-giving