A Plan for Giving

It’s the season of giving — and not just brightly wrapped packages. This time of year, many people think about donating to a charity. Not only does charitable giving help others and make you feel good. It also can provide valuable tax deductions — just in time for the New Year.

But with so many choices for charitable giving, it can be overwhelming. Where to begin? Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Think about what’s important to you.
   Then look for nonprofit organizations that help in those areas. If you are interested in health issues, consider that Meridian’s hospitals — Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Ocean Medical Center, and Riverview Medical Center — are all nonprofit and dedicated to providing our communities with the highest quality of health care.

2. Consider where you want your money to go.
   Your donation can benefit people in your own backyard. Meridian is proud to take care of its friends and families in and beyond Monmouth and Ocean counties.

3. Research the charity before you give.
   Learn as much as you can about the organization by reading its Web site or literature. You can learn about Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations, which supports our hospitals, by visiting Meridian’s Web site or calling us:

4. Consider how your donation will make a difference.
   At Meridian, contributions from friends like you have helped provide many important resources at the medical centers, including new patient monitors in the trauma room. Community support also created the Oncology Navigator program, which provides support and guidance for cancer patients and heir families.

During this season, please consider supporting the important work of a Meridian hospital in your community by giving a tax-deductible gift to the foundation. Please contact 732-751-5100 for more details.