Bush family helps set fundraising record for Northern Light Mercy Hospital’s Gary’s House

Date: 07/16/2024

Two-day Bush Family Classic raises $440,000 for families in need

Northern Light Mercy Hospital announced a record breaking $440,000 was raised at the recent Bush Family Classic to benefit Gary’s House, a Mercy program offering no cost accommodations for friends and family of loved ones receiving medical care in greater Portland. The annual June event takes place at the Nonantum Resort and Cape Arundel Golf Club in Kennebunkport.

The hospitality home is named in honor of Gary Pike, a young Kennebunk man who lost his battle to cancer in 1991. During his treatments, Gary saw firsthand the financial hardship and stress families experience while staying away from home. His dream of offering accommodations for families in need became a reality in 1998. Gary’s House relies completely on private funding to provide free accommodations. The Bush Family Classic is the largest fundraiser for the hospitality home.  

The event is named in honor of longtime Gary’s House supporters, President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush who each served as event chairs along with several generations of the Bush family. This year’s honorary co-chairs were Bush grandchildren, Marshall Bush, Sam Bush LeBlond, and Robert Koch, who were joined at the tournament by President George W. Bush.

A photo of President George W. Bush with participants is attached.

“We’re thankful for the outstanding commitment of the Bush family and our inspiring donors and volunteers who helped raise a record amount for our Gary’s House families in need,” said Charlie Therrien, president of Mercy Hospital. “Since its founding by President George H.W. Bush and others, the Bush Family Classic has raised millions and made life easier for the thousands of families who needed Gary’s House during a difficult time in their lives.”