Sage's Healthcare Division donates food to America's Second Harvest of Tampa Bay

WEST SHORE

Sage donates food for children

A local part of a global organization donated half a ton of food to America's Second Harvest of Tampa Bay to help children who may go hungry over the summer.

On Wednesday, employees of Sage's Healthcare Division loaded the food onto American Harvest trucks.

Each year, Sage has a global effort to give back to the community. This year's efforts focused on giving food.

"This year," said Lynne Durham, Sage public relations manager, "the thought was, with the school year ending, there's going to be kids that the best meal of the day they get is the free lunch."

Sage is an international business that supplies business management software and services.

The Tampa office, 2202 N West Shore Blvd., has about 300 employees.

DOWNTOWN

TGH honored with certifications

Tampa General Hospital has earned awards for quality health care for 12 medical programs that deal with disease management. The Joint Commission, the nation's oldest and largest health care accrediting organization, honored TGH with certification for its programs in bariatric surgery, burn treatment, colorectal disorders, epilepsy, gastro-esophageal disorders, joint replacement, orthopedic trauma, pancreatic/hepatic/biliary disorders, sleeping disorder, trauma, stroke and ventricular assist devices.

"It's truly outstanding," said Janet Davis, vice president for acute care and therapy services. "It's one thing for a hospital to say that about themselves, but it's another thing for an organization to come in and survey you and say that."

TGH was recertified in some areas and received new certification in others. After the hospital applies for the certification, the Joint Commission officials will show up, unannounced, to survey the hospital.

LOWRY PARK

Church will dole out dinners, rest

One church is on a mission to give free dinners and offer a cool place to rest.

Oak Grove United Methodist Church at 2707 W Waters Ave. will serve dinner to the needy at 6 p.m. Wednesday as part of its community outreach program.

"Our intent is to help out the homeless people or people in need," said Shana Macri, a church administrative assistant.

The church wants to give not only a hot meal, but also a cool place to relax during the summer months.

They also hope to make this a monthly event. This is the second month they have offered a free meal to the public. The congregation has provided the food.