POTSDAM -- The Board of Directors’ from St. Lawrence Health’s (SLH) three hospitals recently presented their 2022-2023 Community Service Awards to well-deserving and dedicated North Country recipients.

The Canton-Potsdam Hospital Board (CPH) honored Michael and Nancy Griffin, the Gouverneur Hospital (GH) Board recognized the Gouverneur Police Department, and the Massena Hospital (MH) Board honored the Massena Free Clinic.

The Community Service Award is the highest honor bestowed by each hospital board, and is given to individuals or organizations that have improved the health of communities in our region.

“Those being recognized live and actively demonstrate commitment to their core. A commitment to those they serve, and to their counterparts who serve alongside them,” said President of St. Lawrence Health and Canton-Potsdam Hospital Donna McGregor. “As an organization, we cannot provide health care with bricks and mortar alone; it takes a team of selfless individuals who make personal sacrifices every day for the betterment of others.

Massena Hospital President David Bender noted the decision to select the Massena Free Clinic as the recipient of this year’s Award rose to the top of the nomination pile.

“Established in 1999 as a free medical clinic for adults, the organization’s goal has always been to provide primary healthcare to as many ‘un’ and ‘under’ insured adults as possible,” Mr. Bender said. “Originally a vision of the late Dr. Sateesh Goswami, the Clinic was made a reality through the leadership and fortitude of Dr. Nimesh Desai and Dr. Jayant Jhaveri, along with the collaborative efforts of many local medical professionals, businesses, religious organizations, service clubs, and volunteers.

“Today we honor the Massena Free Clinic for the many ways it and its supporters have enhanced care within our community,” he added.