Carbondale Reporter

A recent donation of $3,000 from the Gordon Graves Foundation is set to aid the renovation and expansion of the SIH Mulberry Center. This contribution was made in memory of Gordon Graves by his wife, Linda Graves, a retired educator from Harrisburg.

The decision to donate followed Linda's attendance at the SIH Harrisburg Medical Center Foundation’s Oktoberfest fundraiser. During the event, Angela Rowe, Foundation Board Chair, spoke about the significance of expanding mental health resources. "Her words touched me deeply," Linda stated. "Our hospital in Harrisburg has always been a cornerstone of this community, and this expansion will provide critical mental health resources that are sorely needed."

Located at SIH Harrisburg Medical Center's campus, the Mulberry Center is notable as Southern Illinois' only non-state-operated inpatient mental health facility south of Interstate 64. The project aims to renovate existing facilities and add 10 to 12 additional patient beds. It will include a specialized medical-surgical psychiatric unit for patients needing both medical and psychiatric care.

Angela Rowe expressed gratitude for the donation: “This unit will be transformative for mental health care in Southern Illinois,” she said. “We are deeply thankful to Linda and the Graves Foundation. Their generosity exemplifies how individual contributions can transform lives and strengthen our community.”

Linda reflected on her contribution's personal significance: “This hospital holds a special place in my heart. It’s where two of my children were born and where our community turns in times of need. I’m honored to contribute to its future in memory of Gordon, who was a remarkable man with a profound sense of giving.”