Dr. He, Rob MacKay, QEDC Director of Public Relations and HSBC employees at the check presentation on Oct. 29. (Image provided by Rob MacKay)
Nov. 11, 2020 By Michael Dorgan
A Flushing-based doctor who set up COVID-19 testing centers throughout the city has received an award from an international bank for providing residents with free screenings.
Dr. Cong He, an anesthesiologist who practices out of Flushing Anesthesia Pain Management on 41st Road, was named a recipient of HSBC’s “Small Business Spotlight Series” that recognizes its customers who go above and beyond the call of duty to serve the community.
The bank awarded him with a $5,000 grant, which is to be allocated to a non-profit of his choice.
Dr. He donated the grant to the Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC), a non-profit that helps local entrepreneurs and aims to bolster the Queens economy. Dr. He presented QEDC with the check on Oct. 29.
Dr. He, who is a customer of the bank, was awarded the grant for setting up COVID-19 testing centers throughout the five boroughs with the assistance of his two sons. Residents are able to visit the centers and get checked for the virus for free.
Rob MacKay, QEDC Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Tourism, said that he was shocked to learn about news of the donation since Dr. He has no affiliation with the organization.
“It was the definition of ‘pleasantly surprised,’ we don’t receive phone calls like that every day,” MacKay said.
MacKay added that the grant comes at a perfect time because the economic downturn is making it harder for the organization to raise funds.
“We are really happy to receive the money and delighted that the work we do is being recognized by people in the community,” MacKay said.
The donation will go toward the organization’s general operating fund that covers the cost of a number of services such as helping entrepreneurs put together business plans to helping them tap into government loans and grants.
“We do a lot of other things for small businesses too including event organizing, food events and we also help promote the borough for tourism,” McKay said.
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