Grant from The Robert Thomas Bigelow Medical Foundation Allows Significant Expansion of the Helping Hands of Henderson Program

Transportation and food pantry services program helps local Seniors remain in their homes and maintain their independence

Dignity Health Wellness Centers in southern Nevada received a generous grant from the Robert Thomas Bigelow Medical Foundation. Totaling $284,361, the substantial donation will dramatically enhance the Helping Hands of Henderson program, which provides critical support for vulnerable seniors in the community.

Helping Hands provides crucial support for vulnerable seniors, helping them maintain independence and remain in their own homes by providing access to essential services — from food and nutrition to transportation to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other destinations. 

"This funding is a key lifeline for Senior health in our community and a game-changer for our Helping Hands of Henderson program,” said Helping Hands Supervisor Cerise McCalister. “It will enable us to significantly boost the services we provide to vulnerable at-risk seniors living on their own here in our community.” 

These funds will assist Helping Hands across three crucial areas:

• Strengthening Personnel: Funding dedicated staff positions - Client Intake Case Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, Full-Time and Part-Time Drivers - that are the backbone of the program.
• Enhancing Transportation Fleet: Newer vehicles are a strategic investment, significantly improving operational efficiency, reducing repair costs, and guaranteeing reliable, and accessible customer experience. The grant will fund the purchase of a new wheelchair life-equipped ADA minivan, as well as a new large-capacity wheelchair life-equipped ADA van for transporting groups to local grocery stores, senior centers, and pharmacies
• Expanding Supplemental Protein Program: Vulnerable Seniors often do not receive adequate protein in their diets. These funds will provide supplemental protein foods (eggs, chicken, yogurt, protein bars) in regular food deliveries. This is a 25 percent expansion of this program.

“Like every contribution to our Foundation, the Robert Thomas Bigelow Medical Foundation grant will immediately be put to work to make a difference in our community,” said Dr. Chad Warren, President of the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation. “By directly addressing key operational needs, this donation ensures that Helping Hands can continue to provide reliable transportation, essential nutrition, and coordinated care with even greater efficiency and dignity."