BEACH LAKE, PA — The Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary (WMHA) was recently honored with the Greater Honesdale Partnership’s (GHP) 2026 Outstanding Community Achievement Award.

Presented during the annual GHP meeting on April 23 at the Central House family resort in Beach Lake, the award was accepted by Karen Hermey, auxiliary president. 

In her remarks, Hermey credited the membership’s shared dedication, noting that they serve “not because they have to but because they care about health care in our community.” 

Additionally, the WMHA was presented with certificates of recognition and proclamations from local legislators, including the Wayne County Commissioners, state Rep. Jonathan Fritz, state Sen. Rosemary Brown and  Congressman Rob Bresnahan.

The auxiliary was formed even before the first hospital was built back in 1920. Hundreds and thousands of dollars have been donated to the hospital to purchase medical equipment and support the health care needs of the local communities. The support also extends to Wayne Woodlands Manor, the Wayne Memorial skilled nursing affiliate in Waymart, to upgrade and enhance the facility. 

With about 150 members, the WMHA raises funds through many ventures: its secondhand stores the Other Shops One and Two in Honesdale and Hawley respectively, the Gift Box in the hospital, and through events such as Purse Bingo, tribute concerts and many other fundraisers. 

New members are always welcome. Email Kathie Carlson at kathie_carlson1@yahoo.com for an application and more information.