May 1, 2009

The Brandywine Health Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2009 Strawberry Festival, one of the oldest and most popular events in our community, is again being presented by Brandywine Hospital and Harleysville National Bank (following a merger with Willow Financial Bank). “We are so grateful to Harleysville National Bank and Brandywine Hospital for stepping forward so generously and so early to serve as the major underwriters of the 2009 Strawberry Festival. Mark Benz, CEO of Brandywine Hospital and Donna Coughey, Executive Vice President for Harleysville National Bank recognize that it’s precisely because of the economy’s downturn that they need to partner with the Brandywine Health Foundation because there are those in the community who are in even more desperate need of affordable, accessible health care services,” commented Frances Sheehan, President and CEO of the Brandywine Health Foundation.

When asked about their continued support, Donna Coughey explained, "Our relationship with the Brandywine Health Foundation goes far beyond philanthropic deeds, to providing volunteer support and professional expertise. As we have extended our helping hand, the Brandywine Health Foundation has been there to make the connection to the communities it serves, through important events such as the Strawberry Festival, and much more. It is my sincere hope that our partnership will serve as an encouragement to others even in these tough economic times.”

Just as people are in desperate need of affordable access to health care, people are in need of an escape and something fun to look forward to. The 2009 Strawberry Festival offers that and more. The 2009 Strawberry Festival will be held Thursday May 28th through Sunday May 31st and exciting plans are in the works for 2009! After receiving rave reviews following the 2008 Strawberry Festival, the most successful festival to date, the organizing committee, led by Chris Saello of the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley and Stephanie Waite of Downingtown, immediately began working on new and exciting ideas for 2009! The new and improved, very affordable family fun areas Strawberryland sponsored by Herr Foods and the Berry Blast Zone sponsored by TD Bank, introduced in 2008 will be back by popular demand. Individuals will pay $8 for a wristband in each area which allows them to bounce and play all day in that area. Other additions to this year’s festival include a Guitar Hero/ Rock Band competition area, a Dunk Tank for laughs and everyone’s favorite Nickelodeon and Disney characters stopping by to say “HI!” throughout the four-day event! And, not to missed…everyone’s festival favorite, our famous, fabulous, deeeeee-licious Strawberry Shortcake!

“Our community looks forward to the Strawberry Festival every year. Brandywine Hospital is proud to host this amazing event that attracts people of all ages and from all across the region to see what a beautiful part of Chester County this is. More importantly, the proceeds from the festival benefit the Brandywine Health Foundation, which supports services and programs that increase the overall health and wellness of our entire region,” stated Mark Benz. “I hope to see you there!”

The Brandywine Health Foundation is the driving force behind the Brandywine Center which opened its doors last spring to bring together for the first time a variety of health and social services for the uninsured and under-insured, as well as low-income senior housing. Secondary beneficiaries of the Strawberry Festival include the Brandywine YMCA, the Coatesville Public Library, the Coatesville Rotary, and the Thorndale Volunteer Fire Company.