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Niagara Fall Memorial Medical Center Awarded $275,427 Grant for PEARLS Program

March 20, 2023

NIAGARA FALLS, NY —  Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center (NFMMC) has been awarded $275,427 from Foundation 214 to be the first organization in Western New York to implement Program to Encourage Active and Rewarding LiveS (PEARLS).

PEARLS is an evidence-based, nationally recognized program proven effective to reduce depression in physically impaired and socially isolated individuals. This program will enroll 500 individuals 62 years of age and older who are experiencing symptoms of depression due to poverty, isolation and chronic illness.

A trained PEARLS coach will meet with a participant in their home for eight sessions over a 19-week period.  Participants are taught symptoms of depression are the result of unresolved problems rather than being an inherent part of the aging process. Each session includes a PHQ-9 screening, Problem-Solving Treatment (PST), Social and Physical Activation, and Pleasant Activity Scheduling.

Aligned with the mission of Foundation 214, PEARLS transforms the experience of aging by providing opportunities to remain productive and improve quality of life by increasing the older adult’s physical and pleasurable activities, increasing independence, and improving physical health.

The awarded grant will directly support and fund the operation of this program at NFMMC and its newly created staff positions.

ABOUT FOUNDATION 214

Foundation 214 is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission to improve the lives of children, the elderly, and veterans by supporting programs that provide basic needs such as food and shelter, education, employment, rehabilitation, and improve mental health.  Named after the Maine Attack Squadron 214, the squadron that founder Sal Alfiero flew with, Foundation 214 provides flexible support for new and innovative approaches to improve quality of life for individuals residing in the eight counties of Western New York. To learn more, visit www.foundation214.org.

ABOUT NIAGARA FALLS MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER

Founded in 1895, NFMCC is a hospital in downtown Niagara Falls, NY, serving the Greater Niagara region for over 100 years. NFMMC is a full-service, 171-bed regional medical center with extensive inpatient and outpatient services. This includes the Stroke Center, Heart Center of Niagara, Niagara Wellness Connection Center, Wound Center of Niagara, OB/GYN Center and UBMD Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. For more information, please visit www.nfmmc.org.

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