Donating to Block Island Health Services

The Block Island Medical Center exists to protect the health and safety of our island residents and visitors.  To date BIHS has been able to accomplish its mission because of the contributions of many. Costs of maintaining, improving and updating our facility are challenging. Without ongoing adequate funding, we are in danger of falling behind in our medical equipment, IT support and maintenance of our facility—all of which are vital to BIHS carrying out its mission. We need to make certain that the medical professionals at BIHS have the resources they need to continue to provide outstanding primary and emergency care to islanders and visitors of all ages.

BIHS depends on billing, grants, investment income and fundraising for its survival.  The Center was opened in 1989 as a result of Islanders who understood the need and came forward with the means to build the Block Island Medical Center.  We depend on the community and visitors to continue to show support by participating in our annual events–the Summer Gala, Fun Run and by contributing to fundraisers like our Lights of Love campaign. These events and fundraisers help to keep our doors open and generally cover up to 10% of our operating expenses. 

If we are going to reduce the risks to our medical center that result from periodic funding crises, and assure continued quality healthcare on Block Island, we need year round and seasonal residents, patients, families, and visitors to regularly give what they can to maintain and grow the best island medical center in New England.   

Our goal is to increase our reserves by $3M in the next 5 years. The self-sustaining revenue generated from this increase in our endowment will minimize the threat of ongoing funding crises and decrease reliance on continued external funding support.  Please think about us when you receive your Lights of Love card, in end-of-year giving, when you begin or renew your membership, and in estate planning.  Every gift–large or small–matters!