Press Releases

Breathe Easier- Quest Diagnostics Incorporated Joins Cool Homes Program at Bergen County's United Way

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ, July 27, 2006- Scorching heat and oppressive humidity over the last several weeks has threatened the well-being of numbers of Bergen County residents. Every year, high summer temperatures contribute to poor health, even death. Children with asthmatic conditions, frail seniors and families living in cramped apartments with poor ventilation suffer when the thermostat reaches record temperatures.

The Cool Homes Program at Bergen County’s United Way provides window air conditioner units to low-income people suffering from the summer heat.
Joining in the effort is Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, the world leader in diagnostic testing and services. The company, whose corporate headquarters is in Lyndhurst, supports health related charitable programs in areas where the company does business.

“Community involvement in essential programs like Cool Homes is one way we demonstrate our commitment as a socially responsible organization and give back to our local community,” said Bill Cattoge, Teterboro Business Unit. “Bergen County’s United Way is saving lives. We are proud to be a local supporter.”

In the past week alone, the program has purchased and installed air conditioners for two frail senior citizens, a pregnant woman with asthma, a young man suffering from diabetic complications, and the mother of three children living in an attic apartment. All would continue to experience serious health related consequences without the help of the Cool Homes Program.

“We are grateful to Quest Diagnostics Incorporated whose generosity is helping people in direct and concrete ways,” said Tom Toronto, President of Bergen County’s United Way. “I encourage anyone whose health is at risk and would benefit from the Cool Homes Program to please call 2-1-1.

Experienced and caring Call Specialists are on the other end of the helpline.”
If you are a community minded individual or business, and would like to join in this effort, please call Cheryl Moses at (201) 986-7708 or visit the Community Impact Section at www.bergenunitedway.org. You too can make a difference in our Bergen County community.

Bergen County’s United Way helps people, 24 hours a day, everyday, wherever help is needed. We fulfill our mission by providing direct services to the most vulnerable residents in our community and developing programs and financial resources to address unmet needs.