Mount Sinai Hospital is on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.
Across its seven campuses citywide, between 80 to 90% of the system’s patients are being treated for COVID-19. Hospital officials say with unprecedented surge in demand, they're in critical need of equipment and supplies.
"Unfortunately, this is like a bad storm that's just hovered over the New York Metropolitan area and is just stagnant,” says Rich Friedman, co-chair of the Mount Sinai Health System Board of Trustees.
That's why Mount Sinai recently launched a social media campaign to help drive awareness and donations. Donors can see what their contribution will go toward, whether it's $5 for a protective mask or $2,500 for a patient bed.
"This is not throwing money in the ocean, you can target specifically what you want to do and do something you feel good about,” says Friedman.
Here's how it works: Donors can open the camera on their phone and scan Mount Sinai's barcode which can be found online or even on certain TV ads. When hovering over the code, donors will be prompted directly to the donation page.
And it doesn't end at protective gear -- people can also sponsor essential personal needs of health care workers including meals, lodging, and transportation.
Since the campaign launched, celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, A-Rod, and Heidi Klum have gotten involved. Friedman says it doesn't matter how small or large the donation is - every bit helps.
"People are saving lives with these contributions, every single one of them," says Friedman.
For more information, visit @mountsinainyc or @getflowcode on social media and use the hashtag #MountSinaiStrong.