Former President and onetime Greenwich resident,George H. W. Bush and wife Barbara were recognized locally by an international nonprofit for their continued philanthropic support.
Stamford-based Americares – a health-focused relief and development organization – presented the pair with its inaugural Bob and Leila Macauely Humanitarian Spirit Award on Oct. 14 at its 30th Airlift Benefit, held at Westchester County Airport. The award was named after its founders, Leila and Robert Macauley, who have been moved to help others recover from poverty and natural disasters. Jonathan Bush Jr., nephew of the former president and first lady, accepted the award on their behalf.
The Bushes have supported Americares’ efforts, including Robert Macauley’s desire for expansion, since it was founded in 1979.
The evening also noted Americares’ critical responses to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. The organization’s emergency teams are currently working to restore health services in the storm-rattled communities, which includes delivering $36 million in medicine and relief supplies to survivors.
Hosted by “Morning Joe” duo Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough, longtime Americares supporters, with an appearance by Americares ambassador, “Scandal” star and Fairfield County resident Tony Goldwyn, the event attracted some 1,000 guests and raised more than $3 million to be used in vital care services.
At the end of the benefit, 100 guests boarded a plane for a 24-hour journey to Guatemala to see Americares’ health programs in action. Goldwyn and his daughter, Tess were among the passengers.
For more, visit americares.org.
– Danielle Renda
