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History

The Ottauquechee Health Foundation has been an autonomous Foundation for 27 years, based on a generous gift from the estate of Mrs. Gertrude Mertens. Board Meeting minutes from February  18, 1997, state: On Dec. 31, 1996, OHF, Inc. received a $1,200,000.00 bequest from the estate of Gertrude Mertens. The income from this gift will allow the Trustees to go forward in plans for unmet health care needs of the community. It is hoped to fund appropriate and doable efforts in “community health care” (sic). e.g. mammograms, prostate screening, dialysis transportation, eye glass subsidies, and school drug program support.

From 1997 to 2024, several million dollars were granted to people and organizations in our nine towns to improve health and wellness. The Foundation will continue to grant financial assistance and support with education, wellness initiatives, and community partnerships. “Community health care” has expanded from the list above to include home care services, disaster and pandemic-related needs, preventative care, dental, hearing and vision support, mobility, mental and emotional health, restorative, reparative and recovery support, and safety-related concerns in homes, agencies, and schools.

The Membership, donors, grantors, communities and collaboration with providers of care and supporters of health and wellness are the keys to the past and future success of the Ottauquechee Health Foundation.

 

 

1956-1974

Woodstock endorses Health Center Plan

history of Woodstock health and wellness Ottauquechee Health Foundation

The Health Studies Committee cites critical issues leading to the inability to attract new doctors. These include the lack of adequate facilities and current doctors retiring.

1956: A Vermont Standard article “Woodstock Area in Favor of Proposed Health Center,” highlights the Health Studies Committee’s results and the strong call for a community health center.

1958: Smith/Simmons House was purchased by an anonymous individual and donated to the Ottauquechee Health Center, Inc.

Key Players

J. Peter Gratiot: In 1956, Mr. Gratiot served on the Board of Trustees of the Ottauquechee Health Center as Assistant Treasurer.

George B. Biggs: George Biggs, President of the Board of Trustees for the Ottauquechee Health Center, receives a check from Mrs. William Emmons, Jr. Biggs was a major organizer and financial supporter of the Center. 

Dr. Hugh Hermann: Dr. Hermann was the first doctor to serve in the new health center in 1956. 

Dr. Jack Butz: Dr. Butz was the first dentist to join the Health Center staff in 1958. From there, he served his community for his entire career.

Dr. Edward Shepard: Joining in 1969, Dr. Shepard was a mainstay of the Center’s practice for three decades.

David Williams and Family: David Williams and family were among the first families to receive care at the center in 1958.