Maimonides’ Ninth Annual Community for Kids Benefit on Dec. 5 wasn’t just a night of giving — it was a holiday miracle in the making. The event, held at the El Caribe Country Club in Mill Basin, shattered records, drawing more than 450 attendees, and raising over $200,000 for Maimonides Children’s Hospital.
The funds will directly support the hospital’s pediatric trauma center and the expansion of its pediatric emergency department, set to open in 2025.
The upcoming expansion of the pediatric emergency department, which will increase its size by five times, is vital to meet the growing demand, according to hospital leaders.
“For 30 years, we’ve been here for the children of Brooklyn,” said Ken Gibbs, president and CEO of Maimonides Health. “In just the last five years, we’ve taken care of more than 8,000 children in the pediatric trauma center. The number-one killer of people under 18 is trauma, and children are about 25% more likely to survive trauma when treated at a dedicated pediatric trauma center. As Brooklyn continues to grow, our pediatric emergency department expansion will be vital, and we are grateful to our supporters for their partnership in our commitment to Brooklyn’s children.”
The night also celebrated outstanding individuals whose dedication to Maimonides Children’s Hospital has made a lasting impact.
Camille and Stefano Filippazzo were honored on behalf of the Anthony J. Filippazzo Fund for Williams Syndrome Research & Advancement; Michael Brincat, director of special events and corporate partnerships at Maimonides Health, received recognition for his efforts in strengthening the hospital’s relationships; and Nick Iacoviello of MVS Heating and Air Conditioning Corp. was commended for his leadership and contributions to the hospital’s mission.
