CTE Health Careers Academy students write "Orange Cares" letters to thank frontline workers

Orange-Ulster BOCES Chief Operating Officer William Hecht joined Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus to collect “Orange Cares” letters from CTE students in the Health Careers Academy on Dec. 22, 2020, at the Regional Education Center at Arden Hill.

Neuhaus launched the initiative to give thanks and pay tribute to people who continue their dedicated work on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 “Orange County’s response to this initiative has been overwhelming and is much appreciated,” Neuhaus said. “I want to thank the students at BOCES and throughout the County, as well as the kind residents, who took the time to write letters of support. It is a testament to how committed our residents are to the men and women on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic and to those in our community who are ill during the holidays.”

As part of “Orange Cares,” residents were asked to write letters of appreciation to Orange County’s doctors, nurses, first responders, medical administrative staffs and those in nursing homes or hospitals during this holiday season. BOCES Health Careers Academy students wrote 72 letters to professionals in the fields they are studying, such as nurses and pharmacy technicians.

“It is an honor and privilege to participate in this great initiative, to thank our frontline workers for all they have done throughout the pandemic,” Mr. Hecht said. “We have always had a great working relationship with County Executive Neuhaus and have continued to collaborate in a variety of ways during this COVID-19 crisis. We want to thank everyone in County Government as well, for their hard work and effort this year.”