Nurses House was founded in 1924 through the generous bequest of a woman named Emily Bourne. She left $300,000 in her will to establish a respite place for nurses who fell ill or were injured and needed a place to recuperate. A beachfront mansion was purchased in Babylon, Long Island, and accepted nurses as guests until 1960. The home had numerous guests rooms, a library, living areas where guests played games, a large kitchen where meals were cooked and served to guests, beautiful gardens with walking paths and a sandy beach directly on the ocean. Hundreds of nurses came to visit - whether it was just for the day, for a few nights, or for weeks at a time. Parties were held at the property to raise funds and donations were accepted to maintain the costs of the home. However, in 1960, with the costs rising and fewer nurses coming to stay, the board of directors decided to sell the property and create a fund for nurses in need. Nurses from NYC and surrounding areas could apply for grants to help with basic needs while out of work due to serious medical issues. The fund, aptly titled "Nurses House" proudly still exists today. Nurses House is now a national organization providing funds to RNs in need due to serious illness or injury. We provide grants to assist with housing and medical expenses and any RN residing in the US can apply. Nurses House runs solely on donations from nurses, the healthcare community and others who care. We hope that with your support we can continue Emily Bourne's legacy for another 100 years. Join us by making a donation of any amount. All donations will be listed on our centennial page on our website and all donations of $100 will be memorialized on a centennial plaque. Thank you for your support!
