"There a 50 million people in the country who currently have no health insurance," said Susie Schrage, area director for Madison County Catholic Charities. "Despite the potential relief promised by universal health care coverage, our clients simply can't afford to wait; they need help now. They come to us in desperate and true 'life and death' situations and we are able to help them through their crisis."
Since its inception, the MedAssist Program has been able to obtain critical medications for hundreds of people throughout Madison, Jersey and Bond counties — free of charge. To date, the MedAssist program has secured over 20,000 prescriptions with a retail value of over $7 million. The majority of the scripts are for a 90-day supply of medication.
"Our fundraiser provides critical funding to help us keep this valuable service available to those with need. The people we serve are incredibly grateful for the donations that support the MedAssist Program," said Schrage.
Denise St. Peters and Stephen Pennell are serving as this year's chairpersons. The evening will consist of a dinner, live and silent auction and music provided by Crystal Image. The theme "A Night of Champions!" celebrates the 2011 Cardinals World Series Championship as well as champions in the community. There will be sports memorabilia available for bidding including items from World Series MVP David Freese and Blues star, T.J. Oshie. Catholic Charities will honor Dale and Carol Neudecker with the Mary Alyce Beardslee Distinguished Service Award for their lifetime contributions to education, community service and civic pride. Maryknoll Father Jerry Wickenhauser will also be honored and presented with the Father Quilligan Spirit of Mission Award. Sen. William Haine will emcee the event this year.
In addition to MedAssist, Catholic Charities continues to operate the Professional Counseling Solutions, Crisis Assistance, Guardian Angel Food Pantry and Faith In Action programs through its offices in Alton and Granite City.
Tickets for the benefit are $40 each and are available through the Alton office. Catholic Charities is still accepting corporate sponsorships starting at $500 as well as auction item donations. To purchase tickets, sponsor the event or donate an auction item, call (618) 462-0634