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Though the holidays are behind us now, one tree is still standing at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for everyone to decorate. Amy Rood, associate director of Volunteer Services at UI Hospitals and Clinics, talks about the special decorations for this tree:
Tell us about this tree?
Our scarf and mitten tree is an eight foot, artificial pine tree sponsored by the hospital's Holiday Committee and it is intended to be decorated with donated cold weather gear.
Who are you asking to help decorate the tree?
Anyone who is interested in sharing good will with community members in need. This is the fifth year we have sponsored the tree. The first year we had about 250 donations. Last year we had over 750 items, so we're hoping to beat that number this year. We have departments in the hospital that do donation drives, and that really helps, too.
Where is the tree located?
The scarf and mitten tree is located in our main lobby near Java House and Wild Rose Gifts—near Elevator D.
Is there a specific size of cold weather gear you are asking for?
We collect hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves for men and women, boys and girls of all ages.
Can anyone add to the tree—or would you prefer the items be dropped off somewhere for staff to hang on the tree?
Anyone can help decorate our tree with their donations. You can come to the lobby and add your donations in person; or you're welcome to drop them off at the Information Desk there; or you can even mail the items to us in Volunteer Services (Volunteer Services, UI Hospitals and Clinics, 200 Hawkins Drive, 8025 JCP, Iowa City, Iowa 52242)—whatever is most convenient.
How long will the tree be in the lobby to decorate?
The tree will be in place through Friday, January 26. We do keep it up a little bit longer because we usually see a large number of donations after the holidays.
Where will all the decorations (scarves, hats, mittens, and gloves) go when the tree is taken down for the season?
We take the items to United Way for distribution through local agencies in the area. In the past, agencies such as the Domestic Violence Intervention Program and Girl Scouts of the Mississippi Valley have benefited.
We've been really pleased with the response to this program. It's a great way to provide comfort and share blessings this time of year, and it's also a kind of fun hands-on-way to make a difference. |
