Penobscot Valley Hospital (PVH) is celebrating a major milestone after successfully raising $30,000 in just three months through its 2025 Mattress Campaign. Launched in June 2025 with the goal of replacing every inpatient mattress at the hospital, the campaign officially reached its fundraising target in September, thanks to the combined efforts of hospital staff, board members, care partners and the greater Lincoln community.
The campaign was designed with two key components: PVH employees, physicians, board members and care partners were challenged to raise $15,000, while the community was invited to match that amount for a total goal of $30,000. Notably, the hospital’s Board of Directors achieved 100 percent participation, and approximately 30 percent of staff and providers contributed through payroll deduction, one-time gifts, or other donations. This strong internal commitment helped inspire broader community involvement.
The funds will allow PVH to replace its inpatient mattresses, most of which were purchased more than 20 years ago. The upgrade is expected to dramatically improve patient comfort, safety, and quality of care. Hospital leaders emphasized that while the campaign’s dollar goal was important, the heart of the project was participation: showing patients and community members that those closest to PVH are deeply invested in its mission.
To keep enthusiasm high throughout the campaign, staff donors were given the opportunity to “dress down” every Friday through the end of 2025. Participants wear jeans along with a special button reading, “We are dressed down for your comfort.” Signs placed around the hospital explain the initiative, reminding patients and visitors of the project’s purpose. The visible show of solidarity helps maintain energy for the campaign and creates a sense of unity among staff.
Alongside payroll deduction and electronic giving, PVH encouraged creative ways to contribute. Employees were invited to bring in proceeds from hobbies or crafts, and many community members spread the word to friends and neighbors. Small acts of giving quickly added up to make a big difference.
The Mattress Campaign also carried out a stretch goal: if the hospital exceeded the $30,000 target, additional funds would be directed toward replacing mattresses used on stretchers in the Emergency Department and Ambulatory Surgical Unit.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who stepped forward to support this effort,” Melissa Pelkey, CEO, said. “From our dedicated board and staff to the many generous donors in our community, this campaign shows what can be achieved when we come together with a shared goal. Something as simple as a new mattress can make a profound difference for patients, giving them better rest, better healing, and a better overall experience at PVH.”
While the Mattress Campaign has reached the goal, PVH continues to encourage ongoing support. Donations to the hospital’s general fund help provide updated equipment, technology, and facility improvements to benefit patients across the region. Contributions can be made online at pvhme.org, by emailing info@pvhme.org, or by calling 207-794-7324 or 207-794-7200.
With the goal being met, PVH will soon begin the process of upgrading its inpatient rooms with new mattresses — a change that will be felt immediately by patients and their families. More than a fundraising success, the campaign serves as a reminder of the powerful connection between the hospital and the community it serves.
