(Submitted Photo)

NORWICH – Chenango’s oldest insurer has committed a quarter of a million dollars toward a new emergency room and walk-in center at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.

Officials from Preferred Mutual Insurance Company presented a ceremonial check in the amount of $250,000 to hospital and campaign leaders on Tuesday. The pledge, to be paid over the next five years, is the largest corporate commitment to be announced since the Norwich hospital kicked off a capital campaign last month.

“We are proud to support UHS Chenango Memorial and its campaign to improve access to emergency health services for the local community,” said Chris Taft, President and CEO of Preferred Mutual Insurance Company.

The New Berlin-based company, founded in 1896, has a workforce of over 300 people and has a long history of focusing its philanthropic efforts in Chenango County.

“Our roots are in Chenango County,” said Taft. “This community has supported us for over 120 years as we’ve grown into a Top 200 property and casualty insurer where we’re committed to helping people live assured. To us, there is no better way to help this growing community live assured than by supporting UHS Chenango Memorial’s campaign to expand the level of medical care and healthcare solutions availale. We are thrilled to be able to give back to the community that has been our biggest champion.”