Salem Health News

From new, unwrapped toys to undergarments and winter jackets, there are many ways to donate at Salem Health this holiday season.

The drive runs from Nov. 16 through Dec. 4 across Salem Health campuses, giving community members and staff the chance to give back to children and teens in need.

“We take a very regional approach to the organizations that we support,” said community outreach and event coordinator Tarah Lavery.

Supporting agencies across our community

Donations will be distributed to the Salvation Army in Salem-Keizer, Polk CASA, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Love Santa in Woodburn and the Santiam Teen Center.

“Toys will stay local to where they get donated,” said Lavery. “Toys donated at West Valley Hospital, for example, will go to Polk CASA or the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.”

All donations will go to families with babies, as well as young adults up to age 21.

What to donate

“We always get stuff for the young kids,” said Lavery. “We’re also looking for gifts that teenagers would like — makeup kits, wireless earbuds, those kinds of things. It’s not just the little ones who need gifts, but older kids, too.”

Last year, Salem Health donated over 500 items between toys, jackets and undergarments.

“Undergarments and socks are always needed,” said Lavery. “Families often receive a food and supply box through these organizations. Those could include diapers or clothing items.”

Where to donate

Drop boxes will be available at every Salem Health Medical Clinic. There will also be drop zones in Salem Hospital Buildings A, B, C, D and M lobbies. For West Valley Hospital, an easy public drop zone is the Salem Health Specialty Clinic – Dallas located across the street.

Learn more

Are you interested in donating? Click here to visit the Amazon Wish List for ideas to drop off in person or ship directly to the hospital with the address listed at check out.