Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County members surprised more than 200 local COVID-19 frontline healthcare workers with breakfast and a big thank you. Club members held a First Responders Appreciation Day on Saturday, September 12 at three local hospitals.

Healthcare workers who treat COVID-19 patients received thank you cards, flowers and breakfast. The teens stopped at St Mary’s Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center and Kindred Hospital of Palm Beach County.

“It’s very meaningful that the community is willing to help us help take care of the frontline workers that are taking care of the ill patients,” said  St Mary’s Medical Center Nursing Supervisor Diane Fynizio.

“We are all honored to be here. We like to make an impact and make a difference so this is a very great opportunity and it’s a chance for us to give back to the community that gives back to us,” said Florence De George Boys & Girls Club member Alivia Latimore.

The event was organized with the help of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s Career Bound and Project FACT. In addition to making first responders feel appreciated, the event also reminded Boys & Girls Club members of the importance of gratitude.

“We want to recognize the sacrifices made by these healthcare professionals who continue to be on the COVID-19 frontlines. Not only are we saying thank you to essential workers who put themselves at risk to serve our community, but this project also allows our members to learn the benefits of giving back,” said Project FACT Director Shamus Gordon.