Spooner Health is a licensed 25-bed critical access hospital in what is known as the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Serving a county of just over 15,000 people in a region known for its isolated beauty, a pandemic was the last thing this area expected. Right away though, the hospital and community members came together to start addressing key issues known at the time such as the personal protective equipment shortage, masks and the importance of staying home. 
Day by day, community members donated surgical masks, safety goggles, gloves, gowns, shoe booties and other miscellaneous items. Hundreds of cloth masks were sewn by loving community members and although tough, there was rallying support for restricting the visitor policy and halting certain services. 
As the pandemic swelled on throughout the summer, Spooner Health put on a virtual health fair to still deliver much-needed care to community members. A social media blitz included videos, service line information and community partner shout-outs. Free lab screenings were available and scheduled times filled up very quickly. 
Additionally, Spooner Health held four community flu shot clinics, one employee and family flu shot clinic, and two school district flu shot clinics to provide a much anticipated and needed community benefit. Spooner Health delivered just as many flu shots as they had in past years and the response from the community was overwhelmingly grateful. 
COVID-19 proved to Spooner Health that even in the midst of unknown challenges, the community has its unwavering support.