They helped so many people.
Two Episcopal Church congregations in Pennsylvania recently achieved a remarkable feat by assisting families burdened with medical debt as part of their charitable endeavors.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church of Lebanon and Hope Episcopal Church in Manheim collaborated to raise funds, successfully eliminating nearly $3.5 million in medical debt for Pennsylvania families.
The accomplishment was shared on social media by St. Luke’s, highlighting a special Evensong service where the symbolic burning of the debt took place, symbolizing a significant relief for those affected.
Recognizing the heavy toll of medical debt on families, the congregations advocated for accessible healthcare for all and encouraged their followers to contribute to organizations like RIP Medical Debt, which specialize in purchasing and forgiving medical debt at reduced rates.
The joint effort between St. Luke’s and Hope Church, despite being in separate dioceses, underscores their shared commitment to compassion and community support. This initiative is part of a broader project called Help, Healing & Hope, demonstrating a sustained commitment to helping families facing financial hardship due to medical expenses.
RIP Medical Debt’s collaboration with churches across the country emphasizes the widespread need for assistance in alleviating medical debt burdens. Through these partnerships, millions of dollars in medical debt have been relieved, providing much-needed relief to countless families.
Reflecting on past successes with other churches, such as First-Plymouth Congregational Church in Nebraska and Crossroads Church in Ohio, it’s clear that collective efforts can have a profound impact on addressing medical debt challenges. These initiatives offer hope and relief to families struggling with healthcare expenses, showcasing the power of community compassion and collaboration.