The Northfield Hospital Auxiliary recently donated more than $6,500 to HealthFinders to support a medication fund for patients who cannot afford prescription drugs.

The funds came from an inactive hospital auxiliary account established years ago for the purpose of supporting a community medication fund for uninsured patients. Shortly after Healthfinders was formed in 2004 to provide free care to uninsured and underinsured residents of Rice County, it assumed responsibility for administering the medication program.

"Since this money was always meant to help those who could not afford medications, we feel it appropriate to donate it to HealthFinders who will use it for the intended purpose,” said Joan Pralle, co-president of the Northfield Hospital Auxiliary.

Charlie Mandile, executive director of HealthFinders, said the medication program is an important part of the services they provide.

“There are countless stories of how this program has been a life saver for those who have lost jobs and health insurance and are struggling to stay on necessary medications,” Mandile said.

The auxiliary has supported the work of HealthFinders over the years with periodic financial contributions.

Editor's note: This is from Northfield Hospital.