Morton Hospital, a Steward Family hospital, today announced the launch of its “Shine on Health Care Heroes” campaign, an effort to enlist patients, residents, and local business partners in applauding health care workers both in Taunton and across the country from the safety of their homes. Morton Hospital is asking community members to hang lights outside their home as part of Steward Health Care’s national effort to thank health care workers and support doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who have continued to show incredible bravery during this time of uncertainty and distress.

“The spread of COVID-19 has caused anxiety both around the world and here in Taunton, touching each of us and upending the way we live,” said Heidi Taylor, President of Morton Hospital. “While most shelter at home with their families, health care workers continue to bravely risk their own health and safety to ensure residents have access to the highest-quality care. Our hope is that seeing lights throughout our community will uplift and brighten frontline medical workers’ spirits and show them just how much we appreciate them and are thinking about them during this time.”

“As a national health care company, Steward has a unique opportunity to champion action at this unprecedented and challenging moment,” said Dr. Joseph Weinstein, Chief Medical Officer for Steward Health Care, the nation’s largest private, tax-paying, physician-led health care network. “We wanted to show the entire health care community, both within Steward and beyond, that we are here to support them, while also involving Americans who are eager to help and share their own gratitude.”

In addition to hanging lights outside their homes, members of the community are encouraged to share photos of their light displays, as well as messages of love and appreciation, on social media using the hashtag #ShineOnHealthCareHeroes. Morton Hospital will work to partner with local businesses to amplify the campaign in weeks and months ahead.