The past year has challenged every part of American life in response to the coronavirus pandemic and, now, weather disasters in Texas and elsewhere further complicate living conditions. In spite of horrendous events, including over 500,000 COVID deaths and 28 million reported coronavirus cases, American citizens have responded with enormous resilience and courage. Actions by the incoming Biden Administration are showing “light at the end of the tunnel.” Johnson & Johnson is preparing to distribute 100 million single shot doses by June.
Efforts to combat the damage from the COVID pandemic have created a greater need for the basic survival of so many Americans. The Leesfield Foundation has stayed active in the Baptist/South Miami Health System in supporting front line medical staff and first responders. Our COVID relief package, thus far, includes $50,000 grant to the Baptist Health Foundation and direct contributions to the staff, tendered by way of prepared meals and other much needed support.
Additionally, in recognition of Dr. Leonard J. Zwerling’s lifetime commitment to the medical community and his patients, the Foundation has donated two Sonosite SII medical diagnostic devices allowing cardiovascular specialists to perform less invasive complex procedures. These devices will assist in the diagnosis and treatment of ultrasound for vascular access, ultrasound for anesthesia, ultrasound-guided (brachial plexius nerve) block, as well as perioperative ultrasound for volume status management. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for March 24, 2021, 12:00 noon, via Zoom. For details, please contact Carmen Marrero – marrero@leesfield.com / 305-854-4900.
The needs of less fortunate Americans, those out of work, those who are homeless and literally starving, have only increased as disastrous weather patterns overtook the entire state of Texas. Our fellow Americans are suffering, and all this is piled on top of the worst health crisis our country has seen in 100 years. Our need to respond has never been greater. The Leesfield Family Foundation has ramped up its resources in the following ways, while we express our thanks to many of you who have joined our efforts towards:
The Texas disaster – At this moment, the Leesfield Family Foundation has sent contributions to two main food suppliers:
More is on its way. “Our simple gesture is to get food, shelter and water to millions of Texans who are literally out in the cold,” according to Foundation Chair, Ira Leesfield.
Those wishing to join our efforts can do so by contacting Carmen Marrero in our office – marrero@leesfield.com or 305/854-4900.
On the COVID front, we continue our contributions to Monroe County Food Banks, including:
∙ Star of the Sea Foundation
∙ Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, Inc.
∙ Bahama Village Little Pantry
We have also taken this opportunity to further our support of local community organizations, such as the Fatherhood Task Force of South Florida, and last quarter increased our contributions to:
- Live Like Bella (Child cancer center)
- Lawyers For Children America
- The Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention
- The Jewish Museum of Florida
We have now re-engaged with the Clinton Foundation with a major 2021 grant in support of its worldwide food programs.
The Foundation’s scholarship program continues with a recent law student scholarship through MD-FAWL Foundation. This year’s Sookie Williams Scholarship recipient is Lucia Rodriguez, a 2nd year law student at Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad College of Law.
The Leesfield/American Association for Justice Law Student Scholarship Program continues into its 27th year with a recipient to be announced at the 2021 Annual Convention on July 17 (virtually). Over 33 law student scholarships have now been awarded.
For the third year, the Foundation has supported the LaRocque Scholarship funding at Avon Old Farms School, and continues the Driscoll Scholarship, both of which are to benefit the quality of lives of students and faculty.
A major grant to the American Jewish Committee supporting its efforts is now completed for the 2021 Judge Learned Hand Award ceremony.
For 2021, the Leesfield Family Foundation emphasis will continue its support of less fortunate families, women and children, and much needed funding for social issues such as Americans for Immigrant Justice and the American Civil Liberties Union.
In a recent Foundation Family meeting, focusing on the recent Texas weather disaster, we decided to significantly increase our efforts as natural disasters alter the course of dedicated and hardworking Americans. In the past, our natural disaster relief has been directed towards catastrophes in Puerto Rico, California, Louisiana, Tennessee, New York, as well as the One Pulse tragedy in Orlando, FL.
All contributions to join our support should be directed through the Foundation’s website at https://leesfieldfamilyfoundation.org/donate/
Thank you for your ongoing encouragement and support.
Ira Leesfield, Chair
