Hingham Mom Thanks 200 Staff for Special Care of People with Disabilities

On Wednesday, nearly 200 staff of Cardinal Cushing School in Hanover met to enjoy a luncheon together, thanks to Hingham resident and Cushing parent Pam Gillig – along with food donated by Cava at Derby Shops, dessert donated by Fratelli’s Pastry Shop and BJ’s, and centerpieces donated by Lowe’s. This is the 9th year that Gillig, whose daughter Caroline attended Cardinal Cushing School for 7 years, has provided lunch as a sign of thanks for all that the Cushing staff does.

“Pam truly appreciates our incredible staff at Cushing, and wants to be sure they feel valued,” added Cushing President and CEO Michelle Markowitz. “She provides 100 pies for staff at Thanksgiving time, and every year she organizes this incredible luncheon. Everyone really looks forward to it!”

When Gillig’s daughter began using Student Services at Cushing, Pam noticed a tremendous improvement in Caroline’s ability to follow direction, make choices, and communicate. “I think the staff here are second to none,” says Gillig. “Caroline has a complex set of disabilities and even so, Cushing supported her in the ways of academics, independence, physical therapy, self-care, music therapy, and so much more. I am so grateful.”

While Pam acknowledges that her lunches are a highlight for staff, she is much more comfortable shining light back on them and all of the work that they do – along with thanking Cava, Fratelli’s, BJ’s and Lowe’s. “We also couldn’t do this without tremendous help from the Cushing maintenance team – who help me set up and break down year after year,” she added.

Cardinal Cushing Centers is a non-denominational organization that supports individuals of all ages, and all abilities across the South Shore. They are one of the largest employers in the area, and have helped thousands of students and adults find hope, independence, and opportunity since opening in 1947. To give, or to learn more about Cushing’s incredible staff, go to www.cushingcenters.org