Credit unions in the Utica-Rome Chapter raised nearly $5,000 for the purchase of a new mobile sensory station at the chapter’s local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. The new “Vecta Full Mobile Sensory Station” is designed to turn any room into a relaxing, distracting and empowering multi-sensory room.

The portable machine was requested directly from the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital coordinator for Mohawk Valley Health Systems. It will be used in addition to the services and therapies offered within the pediatric unit at the hospital.

The credit unions raised the funds through various efforts over the last year, including candy sales, donation jars at teller stations, raffles, dress-down days and more.

In years past, the Utica-Rome Chapter raised funds for the purchase of a new incubator to replace one of the outdated units. The chapter received both state and national first-place Dora Maxwell Community Service Awards for those efforts.

Additionally, the chapter has also funded the remodel of the pediatric playroom to include new furniture, toys, ceiling tiles, paint and more.

“We are very proud of our efforts to support our local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital,” said Jaime McCloskey, manager of Special Metals FCU in New Hartford. “Everyone knows someone who has been either in that maternity ward or pediatric unit. It is very comforting and satisfying to know that all of the monies stay right here in our area.”