Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills, Calif., received its largest gift ever in April, a more than $7 million trust bequest from the estate of Julian and Gladys Saunders.
The medical center will receive the funds over time and use the money to improve patient care, although specific plans have yet to be worked out, says Providence Health and Services spokeswoman Patricia Aidem. The lobby of the 377-bed hospital has been named as a tribute to the couple.
The Saunders lived in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley after World War II. Julian Saunders established Saunders Ford and two self-storage warehouses. Both of the Saunders were known for their charitable deeds. Julian Saunders, a pilot, joined the Flying Samaritans and flew medical professionals to Mexico to provide aid to those in need of medical care.