UW Health Conducts Toy Drive for Hospitalized Kids

Dec 5, 2024 at 6:59 PM
UW Health in Rockford, Illinois is making a significant impact by collecting toys to offer comfort and smiles to children in the hospital. This initiative aims to help kids cope with the unfamiliar environment and allows them to be kids throughout their stay. Stacy Zell-Weavel, the Child Life Coordinator at UW Health, emphasizes the vital role that toys play in a child's hospital experience.

"UW Health's Toy Drive: Spreading Joy in the Hospital"

Collection Sites

UW Health has set up four convenient collection sites in the Rockford area. At UW Health SwedishAmerican Hospital located at 1401 E. State St., people can donate new, unwrapped toys. The UW Health Women and Children’s Hospital at 1350 Charles St. also welcomes donations. Additionally, the UW Health Heart Hospital at 1401 Charles St. Entrance and The Body Factory at 8016 N. 2nd St., Machesney Park are part of the drive. These locations make it easy for the community to contribute and bring some cheer to the little ones.

The availability of multiple collection sites ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate and make a difference. Whether it's a short walk or a short drive, people can easily drop off their donations and help brighten the days of hospitalized kids.

Monetary Donations

In addition to physical toys, monetary donations are also accepted for the Toy Drive Fund online. This provides an alternative for those who may not be able to donate toys directly but still want to support the cause. The funds raised will go towards purchasing more toys and ensuring that every child in the hospital has something to play with.

Donations will be accepted through Jan. 3, giving the community ample time to contribute. The support from sponsors such as the SwedishAmerican Health Foundation, VanVleet Family Foundation, Touching Soles and The Body Factory is crucial in making this toy drive a success.

By collecting toys and accepting monetary donations, UW Health is showing its commitment to the well-being of children in the hospital. This initiative not only provides physical comfort but also helps create a more positive and healing environment for these young patients.