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EcoTarium Offers Free Family Memberships to Essential Workers in Greater Worcester
Worcester, Mass. – May 18, 2020 Through the months of May and June, for every membership that is purchased or renewed, the EcoTarium museum of science and nature will donate a family membership to an essential worker at UMASS Memorial Health Care in Worcester and Wegmans grocery store of Shrewsbury, MA. The family membership grants a group of four free admission to the museum, free and discounted admission at more than 350 reciprocal science and children’s museums around the U.S. and other perks and exclusive offerings for one year. Since the museum’s closure in March, all memberships have been extended three months or more, including those that have expired during this time.
“Not only as individuals but as an anchor institution we are indebted to the service of our essential workers here in Central Massachusetts;” shared Lucy Hale, EcoTarium president and CEO. “We are so reliant on their selflessness during this time, and we wanted to do something to say thank you not only to them, but to their families. We are proud to be able to partner with Wegman’s and UMASS to give back in this way.”
Since the EcoTarium temporarily closed in mid-March, the education and living collections teams have shifted to present engaging and delightful digital content while ensuring that resident animals are cared for. The museum is preparing to launch fee-based virtual programs in addition to the free programming, activities and events currently offered to all audiences.
“The EcoTarium is one of the many local venues that makes Worcester such a special place, added community partner Eric W. Dickson, MD, president and CEO, UMass Memorial Health Care. “Getting outside, enjoying the beauty and wonder that nature has to offer is good therapy for our caregivers. We are grateful to the museum leadership for this wonderful outreach and support of our mission to bring care and relief to the region under the most trying of circumstances.”
EcoTarium memberships are offered for families, individuals, corporate partners, social service agencies and libraries.