In January, Trav’s Outfitter of Rapid City donated a collection of men’s boots and shoes to support Behavioral Health’s Inpatient Clothing Boutique, which will help patients as they transition back into the community after treatment. In addition, Trav’s Outfitter committed to a quarterly donation partnership, strengthening Behavioral Health’s efforts to continue meeting patient needs throughout the year.
Ellsworth Air Force Base families also donated a total of 1,053 children’s and adult clothing and shoe items to the boutique from December to February. These items directly support individuals under inpatient care who are in need of basic essentials.
In addition, Park Bench Apparel/A&J Screening donated boxes of shirts in late January and again in early February.
“Park Bench Apparel/A & J Screening is one of the vendors used for GEAR store merchandise. Using donated Behavioral Health funds, the Foundation had been purchasing clothing items for patients in need,” says Darlyce Bollwerk, Executive Assistant, Monument Health Foundation. “Knowing that custom apparel vendors often have misprinted merchandise, we approached Park Bench to ask if they would be interested in donating those kinds of items. Without hesitation, they contributed several boxes to benefit patients at Behavioral Health.”
The Inpatient Clothing Boutique serves as a discreet resource for Caregivers when patients have limited personal belongings or need fresh clothing after their stay. Through this program, patients are able to leave treatment with clean, seasonally appropriate attire.
“Each year, Behavioral Health serves an average of over 1,500 inpatients, many of whom are suffering personal and financial setbacks, on top of their health crisis,” says Jennifer Cortes, Community Engagement Manager at Behavioral Health. “Donations from the community provide warmth, dignity and comfort. They truly make a meaningful difference in the patients’ lives.”
Charitable donations are honorarily received through Monument Health Foundation. All donors receive a tax-deduction acknowledgment for their generosity. Inquiries about donations, whether clothing, financial or otherwise, can be directed to foundation@monument.health.
Story by Kory Lanphear
Photo submitted