An impressive $2.4 million donation from philanthropic community leaders John and Maria Polli will support the new construction to develop a healing environment for the behavioral health unit at WellSpan York Hospital. The contribution is the largest individual donation to support behavioral health in WellSpan’s history and is part of the ongoing hospital expansion and enhancement project.
“John and Maria’s personal interest in championing mental health services will help transform a significant area of need in our community,” says Roxanna Gapstur, Ph.D., R.N., president and CEO of WellSpan Health. “Their vision will strengthen access to state-of-the-art behavioral health services and advance meaningful, life-changing initiatives for our patients.”
The Polli Family’s vision for community impact started with an initial gift of $750,000 to the WellSpan York Cancer Center Capital Campaign. Their 2020 gift sponsored the Wellness Center to help support cancer patients’ care journey. Their active role in supporting the communities of South Central Pennsylvania ensures a vision of lifelong wellness for all.
“Behavioral health is a significant issue in our community. We’ve faced mental health challenges in our family, we’ve seen the pain and emotion that patients and their families face firsthand,” said John Polli. “WellSpan has always been a leader in behavioral health in our area, and we just want to be a part of the solution that eliminates any potential barriers for members of our community seeking services.”
“There is a growing demand for behavioral healthcare services. This community has been so good to us, and we want people to benefit for a long, long time from us being a part of it,” said Maria Polli.
Construction is currently underway on the behavioral health unit at WellSpan York Hospital with initial occupancy for the unit expected by December, and the fully renovated unit expected to be completed in 2025.
To learn more about WellSpan’s philanthropy programs and regional giving opportunities, visit www.WellSpan.org/Philanthropy.
Source:wellspan.org