There’s never an optimal time for a hospital stay, but the holidays can be especially difficult for kids. Toys and stuffed animals help tide our young patients over until they can return home to holidays with their families.

The Peds department always needs stuffed animals and toys for infants through adolescence. Our favorite things are Squishmallows, Cuddleez, fidget toys, activity books, action figures, cars/trucks, or small sets that can be played with on the tray surface that can be wheeled to a child in bed. We ask that only toys purchased within the past year be donated. All donated items must be brand new with tags or in original packaging.

Here are some things to keep in mind that the hospital cannot accept for our pediatric patients due to hospital policy and/or infection control measures in a hospital environment:
-Used (including gently used) toys or clothing
-New toys or stuffed animals that have been exposed to smoke or animal hair
-Collector items that have been gathered and stored over a significant time (sports cards, Beanie Babies, etc.)
-Board games (unless they’re made of plastic!)
-Books
-Items containing latex (balloons, rubber balls, art supplies, etc.)
-Violent-themed items (guns, knives, swords, blood, violence, etc.)
-Racial or culturally insensitive item
-Religious-themed items or messages
-New or used medical supplies or equipment
-Handmade get-well cards, greeting cards, and holiday cards
-Gift-wrapped items (items will be unwrapped before being given to a patient)
-Food, candy, beverages, etc.

Questions? Call the Foundation at 907-458-5550 or send us an email at AKGFCHFSTAFF@foundationhealth.org. THANK YOU!

Toy car speeding on a blackboard. Toy drive concept on a blackboard.