Community Health System CEO Craig Wagoner announces a $2.5 million endowment for Terry's House in Fresno on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Photos by Ben Hensley

Community Health System of Fresno announced its largest-ever endowment Tuesday — $2.5 million from an anonymous donor for upkeep and operations at Terry’s House, a “home away from home” for families of critical care patients.

At Terry’s House, guests can remain close to hospitalized loved ones at Community Regional Medical Center. The 17,000 square-foot, two-story home has 20 private guest rooms, community areas and amenities.

The gift will help with operational expenses at Terry’s House, as well as provide for the needs of guests and ensure that cost is not a barrier to guests.

Craig Wagoner, Community Health System CEO since Feb. 3, thanked the anonymous donor on behalf of the Community leadership team, board of trustees and over 10,000 families that have stayed at Terry’s House since its opening in 2011.

“This gift, of course, will make a huge impact, but the house still needs ongoing support, of course,” he added. “From the community to be here and for families in need as well.”

Along with Wagoner, a current guest at Terry’s House, Ramon, shared his experience at Terry’s House, praising the staff, amenities and Community Health System’s efforts in providing him a place to stay while his uncle recovers in the ICU at Community Regional Medical Center.

Ramon, who lives and works in Delano, has been commuting to and from Fresno for work; during his days off, he stays at Terry’s House to remain closer to his uncle, who is expected to be released from the ICU within the next several weeks.

“I’m very grateful,” he said. “This is one of the best ways to be here because it saves me money, hours of driving, gasoline,” he said, adding that the location of Terry’s House, along with the amenities and offerings are a blessing.

Wagoner closed by wishing Ramon’s uncle a speedy recovery and once again thanking the anonymous donor