Good Shepherd receives $250,000 donation toward new hospital

Air Products Foundation gave $250,000 to the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network “Hope Starts Here” capital campaign to support its planned Outdoor Therapy Garden. 

The pledge helps Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network’s efforts to build a 76-bed, state-of-the-art rehabilitation hospital on 45 acres of land across from The Promenade Shops of Saucon Valley, near Route 309 and Interstate 78 in Center Valley.  

With the final steel beam of the under-construction hospital in the background, Air Products Foundation representatives presented Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network leaders with a ceremonial check in South Allentown Friday. 

“Air Products is honored to join with others in support of Good Shepherd,” said Laurie Hackett, Air Products community relations director. “We celebrate the work that they do and this unique outdoor space will add much to the rehabilitation journey for so many.” 

The new rehabilitation hospital, scheduled to open in June 2023, aims to revolutionize treatment and recovery options for people with stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury and other serious illnesses or injuries. 

“We’re excited for the hospital opening in 2023 because only a handful of freestanding rehabilitation hospitals are built each year in the country — and one is coming right here to the Lehigh Valley,” said Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network President & CEO Michael Spigel. “It’s a transformational event for Good Shepherd, the region and for those who seek out advanced rehabilitation services. We’re so fortunate for community partners, such as the Air Products Foundation, to support Good Shepherd’s mission and what promises to be a destination for recovery.” 

The new rehabilitation hospital will feature the Outdoor Therapy Gardens, which will offer physical, spiritual and social ways for patients to undergo therapy and participate in activities while staying at the rehabilitation hospital — gardening, trails, outdoor green space and more. 

As part of their overall “Hope Starts Here” contribution, the Air Products Foundation will support the creation of the Activities Lawn portion of the Outdoor Therapy Gardens. The Therapy & Activities Garden space is designed specifically to allow patients to return to the activities they love, including golfing and gardening, as part of their recovery.