Newport Native Honored At Wednesday's Celts Playoff Game

NEWPORT, RI — If you watched Wednesday's Celtics playoff game, you might have glimpsed Newport native Dr. Jim O'Connell. He was honored as one of the Heroes Among Us for his work caring for Boston's homeless. His foundation helps more than 12,000 homeless people every year. The Patch will have some photos Thursday. Here's the preview information from the press release.

WHO: Hero Among Us Honoree Jim O’Connell of Newport, RI.

WHAT: Newport, RI native Dr. Jim O’Connell is not your typical doctor.

For more than 30 years, he has provided healthcare to Boston’s homeless population as a street doctor with the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), a nonprofit he has led since 1985.

Recognized as a skilled caregiver, Jim has received countless awards for his expertise on homelessness and his program is used to educate health organizations around the world.

Employing 350 specialists in more than 80 locations, BHCHP serves more than 12,000 homeless individuals living in Boston each year.

WHEN: Jim O’Connell will be honored on May 10 when the Celtics face off against the Washington Wizards in the NBA Playoffs.

WHY: Since its establishment in 1997 by the Boston Celtics, The Heroes Among Us program has recognized outstanding individuals who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to their communities. The award is presented at every Celtics home game and pays tribute to the heroic achievements of these outstanding citizens.

Photo by Keith Allison via Flickr