OGDEN -- For the past three years, Joseph Jones has taken his son to Shriners Hospitals for Children to correct the boy's club feet.
In gratitude, the Weber State University business and economics student senator organized a drive at the university to collect toys, blankets and money to help the hospital.
"I think it's fantastic," Jones said. "I think what they do and their business model and their quality of service is just fantastic."
The drive, which runs until Thursday, is not going as well as Jones hoped.
"As far as new toys," Jones said, "we don't have any."
Jones understands that during these rough economic times, fewer people have money to donate, but the drive will continue.
Jones knows the work the hospital does is important. Shriners Hospital, which started in 1922, is a health care system of 22 hospitals offering pediatric specialty care, innovative research and teaching programs for medical professionals.
Children up to age 18 with orthopedic conditions, burns and spinal cord injuries or with cleft lips and palates are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patient's ability to pay.
The drive will help the children being treated at the hospital. According to a news release, the toys collected help alleviate anxiety, boredom and even pain in the patients.
Organizers hope to collect items such as dolls, action figures, remote-controlled cars and board games, along with batteries and other accessories for children up to age 18.
All donated toys must be new, to avoid the risk of infection inside the hospital.
All money donations will go to the hospital's Durable Medical Equipment fund.
In the meantime, Jones said he will continue approaching organizations in the area for donations.
For more information or to make cash donations, contact Jones at 801-476-3238.
Donation boxes
Donations can be dropped off any time at:
- Weber State University Wattis Building, near the main door
- WSU Davis Campus main building
- Shepherd Union Building, across from the information booth
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