Senior Corporal Amber Oliver accepted White Rock’s donation of 250 hats and 250 gloves for area children to share at their November community fair.
A brave crew of White Rock Medical Center staff bundled up in coats and scarves with an important purpose on a cold, windy morning in early November. They were not providing medical care, but rather making sure local children are warm this winter and building strong community relationships.
On Nov. 12, the Dallas Police Department’s Northeast Patrol Division hosted its annual Kids Health & Safety Fair. White Rock staff helped organize the much-anticipated event and volunteered to be at the fair to share health education with attendees.
White Rock staff also made a pledge – to provide 200 hats and gloves for children in need, to be given away at the fair.
However, they did not provide that amount. Instead, the staff’s personal donations funded the purchase of 500 – that is, 250 hats and 250 pairs of gloves.
“Our staff took that challenge and far exceeded it. I’m humbled and honored that so many people at White Rock generously gave their personal dollars for this effort,” said Crystal Conwell, RN, who helped organize the event with the police department.
The first frigid cold front hit just in time for the Dallas Police Department’s outdoor health fair, but that did not stop Bethany Brunson, RN, quality department, and Gayle Bryers, RN, labor and delivery unit.
White Rock’s outreach crew attended the fair, sharing sweets for the kids, hand sanitizer, important health and safety information for children and adults, as well as information about accessing primary care.
“I volunteered to be a part of this event because I think it is important to serve our community. It was really great to see so many people there and witness all of the wonderful services that were provided to so many people,” said Keri Walakovits MS, PT, rehabilitation services manager.
In addition, White Rock Medical Center branded squishy balls were especially appreciated. The fair’s special guests of the day were families with special-needs children. The balls can improve motor skills, create an outlet for stress or simply be a fun fidget toy, explained Conwell.
The Emergency Department also assembled and donated approximately 100 comfort kits that included personal care items such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes.
“What we showed our community is that White Rock Medical Center is here to care for them, meet their needs and support them – no matter how cold it is! Everyone we interacted with was so appreciative,” said Crystal Conwell, RN.
12.7.2022