PRESS RELEASE

Plainfield Health Center Foundation Hosts Ninth Annual Gala
“Mardi Gras Magic” to Honor Senator Wayne Bryant, Dr. John Petillo, Dr. Susan Walsh

For Immediate Release: Monday, April 25, 2005-PLAINFIELD, NEW JERSEY- The Plainfield Health Center Foundation in support of the Plainfield Health Center (PHC), one of twenty Federally Qualified Health Centers in New Jersey, dedicated to providing cost effective primary health care services for the residents of Plainfield, Elizabeth, and surrounding communities, announced its upcoming Gala and Silent Auction, to be held on Friday, May 6th at the Bridgewater Marriott.

This year’s event marks the 36th Anniversary of the Plainfield Health Center, and honors three individuals who have had significant impact on the health care industry and the health status of the citizens of New Jersey. Senator Wayne Bryant has been in the New Jersey legislative service since 1990. As Chair of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, he has been instrumental in developing legislation in support of New Jersey’s Federally Qualified Health Centers. Dr. Petillo is a recognized New Jersey leader, having served as CEO of several corporations, chancellor of Seton Hall University, and now President of UMDNJ. Under the medical leadership of Dr. Susan Walsh, PHC has developed major healthcare programs and resources, providing immunizations for children, prenatal care, caring for the chronic conditions of the elderly, addressing major health issues such as HIV/AIDS, and much more.

This year’s event is being sponsored by Schering-Plough, The Marotta Family Foundation, PSE&G, Solaris Health System, PNC Bank, AmeriChoice, Amerigroup, and American Express Tax and Business Services. Proceeds from this year’s Gala will benefit the Plainfield Health Center in its efforts to expand access to primary health care to thousands of additional patients over the coming year.

“It is an honor and a privilege to recognize the contributions of three strong supporters of public health,” said Plainfield Health Center Foundation Board Chair and PHC Founder Oliver J. Bartlett. “It is a special occasion for the Plainfield Health Center and the Plainfield Health Center Foundation to celebrate the enormous achievements of these exceptional leaders. They continue to enable access to health care for our community through legislation, education and provision of medical care.”

“We are so excited about this year’s Gala aimed at supporting enhanced access to health care for an even greater portion of our community, and honoring three leaders in the public health arena,” said Paulette Hussey, Gala Chair. “Beyond the event’s success as a fundraiser, it is a guaranteed fabulous evening.”

For additional information, to make a contribution to this year’s Gala, please contact the Foundation Office on 753-6401, extension 211.

About The Plainfield Health Center

The Plainfield Health Center, incorporated as the Plainfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation, was born in 1969 under the auspices of the 1960's Model Cities Neighborhood Program. Led by a dedicated group of community activists, the Center was initially created to provide accessible health care to the residents of the West End of Plainfield.

copyright © PHC 2005