For the third consecutive year, Salem Health Medical Clinics (formerly Willamette Health Partners) reached out to several elementary schools in Marion and Polk Counties and ask for their school supply lists for each grade.

The annual effort focuses on kids and families who are struggling financially. These donations help them concentrate on learning.

“We set a goal to collect 200 backpacks this year,” said Ralph Yates, DO, chief medical officer with Salem Health. “Our staff blew away that goal by donating 370 backpacks loaded with school supplies! We are honored to work with such caring and generous people.”

The wave of backpacks nearly filled up the administrative office’s waiting area. Soon afterward, staffers delivered the backpacks to the various area schools. Counselors and community liaisons gave them to students in need as they registered for school and at back-to-school nights.

Salem Health — an OHSU Partner — offers exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. It is comprised of hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty care providers, plus other affiliated services. For the second consecutive year, the hospital in Salem received the prestigious 2016 Truven Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals, placing it among the nation’s highest performing hospitals. “Like” us on www.facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at www.youtube.com/salemhealth.