In an effort to promote and ensure healthy communities, Meridian Health Services has rescheduled its Charity Gala, Rialzo, from April 10, 2021 to April 9, 2022. This is the event\u2019s second rescheduling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur mission in promoting healthier communities is our focus,\u201d said Hank Milius, President\/CEO of Meridian. \u201cIt\u2019s unfortunate that our friends of Meridian cannot gather for Rialzo this year. We have always appreciated their support for our programs and services. Given our adherence to COVID precautions and the distribution of the vaccine, I am optimistic we will celebrate overcoming this pandemic at next year\u2019s Rialzo!\u201d<\/p>\n
Meridian has been proactively engaged in battling the pandemic by implementing COVID-19 testing at many Meridian locations and recently began vaccinating eligible patients and community members. Meridian also expanded virtual appointments making services more accessible to patients. Keeping patients healthy through this pandemic has been Meridian\u2019s main focus.<\/p>\n
Meridian is currently administering vaccinations at the Suzanne Gresham Center on White River Boulevard. This unique site offers free vaccinations indoors and in cars for those with varying mobility issues.<\/p>\n
Large gatherings may have ceased, but the need to support the needs of others has not. Meridian invites supporters to partake in \u201cA Night to Remember\u2014Stay Safe Packages\u201d! These packages are a way for valued Meridian supporters, new and continued, to enable the ongoing success of these great programs while enjoying local \u201cstay safe\u201d packages as communities endure this pandemic together.<\/p>\n
Rialzo funds are a vital support to the Maternal Treatment Program and Women\u2019s Recovery Home. In September of 2020, Meridian opened its newest addictions and recovery facility, the Women\u2019s Recovery Home, offering medical and mental health care for women recovering from substance use. The group home is the landing place for women between inpatient therapy and outpatient therapy.<\/p>\n
Meridian started the MTP in 2017 with funds from Rialzo VIII and has treated 171 women in the multi-week program and seen the birth of 31 babies none of whom had to be treated for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.<\/p>\n
Meridian invites recurring and new supporters alike to select \u201cA Night to Remember \u2013 Stay Safe Packages\u201d from which proceeds will help both the Maternal Treatment Program and the Women\u2019s Recovery Home.<\/p>\n
Packages \u2013 sponsored by First Merchants, Manor Brothers Concrete, and Indiana Michigan Power \u2013 will allow the general public to support the need at various levels from $50 to a $500 package. Included is a night stay at the Courtyard by Marriott, services from Greg Hubler Automotive, massages from University Dermatology Center,\u00a0flowers from Dandelions, discounts from Willowbrook Interiors, meals at local restaurants like Amazing Joe\u2019s or Once Upon a Plate Catering, tickets to events at Muncie Civic and Muncie Symphony Orchestra, classes at Cornerstone Center for the Arts, VIP gift bag from Redhead Salon, car washes at Clancy\u2019s and a hardback coffee table book commemorating the first 10 years of Rialzo, among other discounts. Package benefits may be enjoyed at the buyer\u2019s discretion through the end of the calendar year.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we can\u2019t put 1000 of our supporters in one room, we know folks still want to help,\u201d said Scott Smalstig, Director of Development. \u201cThey can buy a package, support the cause, have a safe and fun couple\u2019s night out, and help some great local partners.\u201d Purchase of the packages can be done now through April 30 on Meridian\u2019s website at www.MeridianHS.org<\/a> by clicking the DONATE button.<\/p>\n