SKOWHEGAN, Maine - Skowhegan Savings Charitable Foundation today announced it has donated $5,000 to Sebasticook Valley Health's capital campaign. The funds will be used to help finance facility expansions to provide better inpatient care to the community.

SVH has experienced a lot of growth since 1963, when the Pittsfield community recognized the importance of a hospital to the area and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. SVH President/CEO and EMHS Senior Vice President Terri Vieira said the new inpatient wing is, "A milestone that reflects our hospital's deep community roots, and well-positions SVH for the future. This new, leading edge facility greatly enhances the comfort, privacy, and safety of our patients and we are now better positioned to efficiently and effectively meet the needs of our community for years to come. Without the support of the people and the businesses of the communities we serve, this achievement would not have been possible. On behalf of the staff and patients of SVH, I extend our heartfelt gratitude."

The inpatient wing was part of "The Campaign to Modernize SVH," which began in 2012 and was managed by Cianbro Corporation in Pittsfield. The expansion touched various areas throughout the hospital, from upgrading the hospital parking and walking areas, to much-needed upgrades to the hospital's heating and cooling systems and various patient areas throughout the hospital.

"For the last 50 years, Sebasticook Valley Health has played an important role in the local community," said John Witherspoon, Skowhegan Savings President & CEO. "We are pleased our contribution can help support the hospital's mission to treat all patients with dignity and respect by providing the most modern inpatient services while simultaneously advancing operational efficiencies."

From left to right: Michael Gallagher SVH Board Chair; John Witherspoon, Skowhegan Savings President & CEO; Mac Cianchette SVH Campaign Chair; Terri Vieira SVH President and CEO; Renee Hawthorne, Skowhegan Savings Pittsfield and Fairfield Branch Manager; Rick Whalen, Skowhegan Savings VP Market Manager; Jon Christensen SVH Campaign Executive Committee Member