Press Release

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March 13, 2009

Because of the economic crisis, more people are turning to the county hospital and health centers for care, and that means the safety net needs support more than ever. The Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation will host its annual fundraising gala April 18 at the Historic Craneway Pavilion. Tickets are available to the public and cost $125 per person.

The theme of the event is "Jazz at the Craneway" featuring live big band music performed by Montclair Women´s Big Band. The night also features cocktails, dinner and two auctions.

The Foundation is a nonprofit that raises awareness and funds for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and its local Health Centers, which are part of Contra Costa Health Services. Local and state budget cuts threaten the public health system at a time when even more people will need it. Increasingly, people are losing their jobs and health insurance and turning to the hospital and health centers for care. The Emergency Department already has seen a 12 percent increase in patients.

"As the economy falters, resources at the Medical Center are stretched thin," said Lynda Gayden, the Foundation´s Executive Director. "This event is to support our wonderful health system. The Medical Center and Health Centers need us now more than ever."

Contra Costa Regional Medical Center is recognized as a national leader in innovative practices and patient safety and recently was recognized for expanding access to specialty care.

"The support from the community and the Regional Health Foundation allows us to continually improve the care we provide to all of our patients," said William Walker, M.D., Director of Contra Costa Health Services and a member of the Foundation´s board of directors. "Contra Costa Regional Medical Center is a place of hope to a great deal of people we serve."

Last year, the gala raised more than $100,000 for the Medical Center. This year, Gayden is hoping for more. "We have one of the finest facilities in the Bay Area. I invite the whole community to come and support one of our county´s most valuable assets," she said.

The Regional Health Foundation is also seeking sponsors for this year´s gala. To become a sponsor or to purchase tickets for the event, call Lynda Gayden, Executive Director of Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation, at 925-957-5439.

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