Patients Presented “Green” Occupational and Physical Therapy Program
On Wednesday, April 22nd, in recognition of Earth Day, the young patients of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children presented the Horticulture Cart, a display of new seedlings all planted and cared for by St. Mary’s kids as part of an occupational and physical therapy program that supports the “green culture” of St. Mary’s by working with patients and families to create a peaceful, therapeutic, and environmentally restorative garden.
The fun-filled day packed with “green” events held at the Bayside hospital, were sponsored by EcoPlum, a company that encourages environmental stewardship through incentives, information and education, and other activities included the “Green Story,” a short play performed by St. Mary’s kids about the benefits of recycling. The children also displayed their uniquely designed “trash art,” decorative recycled arts & crafts using trash such as egg cartons, plastic bottles, coffee cans, and other discarded reusable items.
Patients, families, and staff also had an opportunity to stop by and pick up some fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables which were available at St. Mary’s Farmer Market.
Exhibits and samples were on display by eco-friendly vendors such as EcoPlum and Big Guyser, to help educate and raise awareness about being green.
St. Mary’s, one of the region’s largest providers of post-acute care for children with special needs, has been committed to creating an environmentally-friendly atmosphere for patients, family, visitors, and staff, and the day’s activities were part of the organization’s continuing steps to implement eco-friendly practices. In 2006 St. Mary’s received the prestigious Making Medicine Mercury Free Award from Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) for creating mercury-free alternatives throughout the healthcare system, and also received the Civic Award of Distinction – Operation Save New York for participating in an ongoing energy curtailment program.
St. Mary’s energy reduction efforts, comprehensive shredding and recycling program, and the overall green initiatives of employees have saved thousands of trees and thousands of dollars in energy.
