SNOQUALMIE, WA – This February, the Snoqualmie Valley Health (SVH) Foundation invites the community to join in its first ever Emergency Clothing Drive. The goal is simple: ensure no patient is discharged without warm, appropriate clothing.
Imagine being discharged after an emergency visit with no coat, shoes, or even a pair of pants suitable for the cold. For many patients, this is the harsh reality—and for too long, the burden of solving it has fallen on the compassionate nurses and staff, who often use their own money to ensure patients leave with dignity and safety.
In a hospital setting, if a patient’s clothes are cut off during an emergency or if their stay is short and they have no one to bring them a change of clothes, they are typically provided with a hospital gown. And, while gowns are standard attire during a stay, they offer minimal coverage and warmth, leaving patients vulnerable.
On average, 2–3 patients each week require appropriate discharge clothing. Without the support of our Foundation and community, meeting this need would remain a quiet struggle. Every contribution helps deliver warmth, comfort, and dignity to patients at their most vulnerable moments.
Hospitals may provide items like blankets or slippers, but personal clothing is generally not supplied or kept in stock. Donations are crucial to filling this gap.
Ways to Help
- Amazon Wishlist Donations: Visit the SVH Foundation’s Amazon Wishlist to purchase clothing and supplies.
- Monetary Gifts: Monetary donations can be designated for the clothing drive online via the Foundation’s website.
By participating in the Emergency Clothing Drive, community members provide an invaluable resource and become a vital part of compassionate patient care. The SVH Foundation envisions this effort growing into an annual tradition of kindness and connection.
For more information about the Snoqualmie Valley Health Foundation and its mission, please visit SnoqualmieValleyHealth.org
Read the full press release here.