#United States #Newport Beach #Ron Simon #Sandi Simon #Hoag Health

A $30 Million Investment in Caregiver Housing

In a significant move to support the workforce, Hoag Health has announced a remarkable $30 million donation from Ron and Sandi Simon. This philanthropic gift aims to address the rising housing costs in Orange County, providing essential resources for the nurses and staff who serve the community. This initiative not only highlights the Simons' long-standing commitment to healthcare but also underscores the urgent need for affordable housing solutions.

The Need for Workforce Housing

As housing prices in Orange County continue to escalate, securing affordable living options for healthcare workers is becoming increasingly critical. The donation will help fund a new workforce housing assistance program that offers an annual allocation of approximately $1.25 million in housing stipends for eligible employees. This financial support is designed to assist Hoag's dedicated workforce, which is on the brink of significant expansion, due to the impending opening of Hoag's Sun Family Campus in Irvine. This facility is expected to generate around 1,000 new jobs, making the need for accessible housing even more paramount.

Michael Krug, SPHR, Chief Human Resources Officer at Hoag Health, emphasized the importance of this gift by stating, “Our caregivers are the cornerstone of everything we do at Hoag, and supporting them is fundamental to our long-term success.” This statement resonates deeply within the healthcare community, where the well-being of staff directly impacts the quality of care provided to patients.

Supporting Caregivers

The Simon family's generous contribution represents a crucial step in Hoag's ongoing efforts to enhance employee support systems. Not only does it aim to alleviate immediate housing challenges, but it will also lead to the development of long-term solutions for permanent workforce housing.

The initiative has been framed as a strategic investment in recruitment and retention, ensuring that Hoag can continue to attract top talent while empowering caregivers to reside in the communities they serve. Caroline A. Pereira, President of the Hoag Hospital Foundation, expressed gratitude for the Simon family's commitment, stating, “This gift builds on that legacy by investing directly in the people who make our mission possible every day.”

The Simon Legacy

Ron and Sandi Simon's ongoing support for Hoag extends beyond this latest donation. Their previous contributions have created vital programs and facilities, such as the Ron & Sandi Simon Research, Innovation, and Education Fund, which has greatly enhanced Hoag's clinical research capabilities. This fund fosters the acceleration of new clinical trials and ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of medical innovation.

“This initiative aligns deeply with Hoag's history and values,” Ron Simon noted, emphasizing the importance of enabling caregivers to thrive both professionally and personally. Their vision is for healthcare heroes—like nurses and first responders—to attain affordable housing within the communities they wholeheartedly serve.

Hoag's Commitment to Excellence

With more than 9,000 employees, Hoag is among the top employers in Orange County. The organization prides itself on providing diverse roles that include nurses, physicians, and administrative staff, all of whom contribute to a comprehensive and compassionate patient care experience. As they aim to expand their reach and deepen their impact, the importance of philanthropic support cannot be overstated.

Robert Braithwaite, President and CEO of Hoag, reflected on the institution's founding principles, where caregiver support has been central since its inception. “From the very beginning, Hoag has believed that supporting caregivers is essential to delivering exceptional care,” he stated. The hospital's legacy of commitment to its staff traces back to its roots, and it remains an enduring principle in their operations today.

Looking Ahead

As Hoag prepares for the future with upcoming expansions, the role of philanthropic partners like Ron and Sandi Simon will be crucial in shaping how the organization supports its workforce and communities. The gift not only addresses immediate housing needs but also lays a solid foundation for sustainable healthcare in Orange County.

In conclusion, this $30 million gift symbolizes a profound investment in people, healthcare, and community, exemplifying the values that Hoag holds dear. By prioritizing the wellbeing of caregivers, Hoag Health ensures its ability to meet the growing needs of its patients and communities in the years to come.

For more information about Hoag Health's initiatives and the Simon family's contributions, visit Hoag's official website.