Nurses House Celebrating 100 Years of Helping Registered Nurses in Need

Nurses House, Inc., a national charitable organization for registered nurses in need, is proud to be celebrating its centennial this year. The organization’s sole mission is to provide short-term aid to nurses who are unable to support themselves financially as a result of illness, injury, or disability.

Nurses House was founded in 1924 through a generous bequest from Emily Bourne. Bourne left $300,000 in her will to establish a respite place for nurses who fell ill or injured and needed a place to recuperate. A beachfront mansion was purchased in Babylon, NY, and nurses came to stay as guests from all over the northeast. Hundreds of nurses came to visit, whether it was just for the day, for a few nights, or for weeks at a time. Parties were held at the property to raise funds and donations were sought to maintain the costs of the home. However, in 1960, with the costs rising and fewer nurses coming to stay, the board of directors decided to sell the property and create a charitable fund for nurses in need. Nurses from New York City and surrounding areas could apply for grants to help with basic needs while out of work due to serious medical issues. The fund was aptly titled "Nurses House."

Today, Nurses House is a national organization providing grants to assist registered nurses with housing and medical expenses. It is run by a volunteer Board of Directors and is funded by individual donations from nurses, nursing organizations, corporations and friends of nurses as well as various annual fundraising activities. Since its inception, Nurses House has helped thousands of nurses in all 50 states regain health and productivity. In the past three years alone, Nurses House has provided financial grants totaling over $500,000. The funds provided not only help keep bills paid and a roof over their heads while suffering from a serious medical crisis, but also provide hope and the knowledge that someone cares.

In honor of its centennial, Nurses House has established a fundraising campaign in the hopes of continuing Emily Bourne's legacy for another 100 years. All donations towards the fundraiser will be listed on the centennial page on the Nurses House website and donations of $100 or more will be recognized on a centennial plaque. Sweatshirts and cross-body bags with the centennial logo are available for a donation of $65 or $35.

To learn more about the work of Nurses House, apply for help, or make a donation to the centennial campaign, visit www.nurseshouse.org.