The Department of Radiology recently concluded its winter clothing drive benefiting Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) patients, and those supported by the Homeless Health Services Program.
Nearly 180 new and gently used items, including heavy coats, gloves and scarves, were collected, and delivered to the VUMC Clothes Closet for distribution through VUMC Guest Services and social workers. A comprehensive list of donations is provided below:
- 40 shirts
- 28 pairs of gloves
- 28 pairs of socks
- 18 scarves
- 16 heavy coats
- 11 sweaters
- 10 jackets and sweatshirts
- 10 pairs of shoes, sandals and slippers
- 9 loungewear items
- 5 hats
- 3 pairs of shorts and pants
Peggy Buchanan, VUMC Guest Services Representative, operates the Clothes Closet. She said items are delivered daily to patients, often those who are burn victims or homeless, who are experiencing stays at Vanderbilt longer than anticipated, or do not have clothes of their own to wear upon being discharged.
“Our patients are pleased to get anything that we can provide them,” said Buchanan. “You’re making such a difference, and I’m so grateful for your donations.”
Additional weatherproof jackets and gloves were also collected for the Medical Center’s Homeless Health Services Program, which is directed by Sheryl Fleisch, M.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Fleisch will deliver items directly to local, displaced individuals who receive treatment through her street psychiatry program.
“This is an ongoing need for us and the entire homeless community, especially as it begins to get cold,” said Fleisch. “Unfortunately, these individuals risk dying of cold weather related causes, or will get cold weather related conditions such as frostbite. The warm attire that was donated will help combat this.”
For more information about the Clothes Closet, please contact Buchanan at peggy.buchanan@vumc.org. For information about the Homeless Health Services Program, and the work being done by Fleisch and her team, click here.
