Wed, Dec 28, 2022 at 10:16 PM

Volunteer Auxiliaries raise money to provide equipment for hospitals

Marshall Medical Centers’ two volunteer Auxiliaries worked hard to fund significant purchases to benefit both hospitals in 2022. Marshall North Auxiliary, in Guntersville, fulfilled a request from the cafeteria to replace four large, bulky food tray carts with smaller stainless steel units that make it easier to transport patient meals and keep food hotter. The carts represent an investment of almost $12,800 by Auxiliary members.

“The Food Services department appreciates the Auxiliary making this purchase,” said Executive Chef Joseph Vance, who oversees both hospital cafeterias. “They didn’t have to do this. There are many other pieces of equipment they could have bought so we are very thankful. These carts help us do our jobs much more efficiently.”

Marshall South Auxiliary in Boaz was asked by administration for help in replacing aging, heavy tables and chairs in a large classroom that gets frequent use. Volunteers purchased 40 tables on wheels that are much easier to move and flip up for storage. The tables represented an investment of $8,256.

“Our volunteers are an integral part of our healthcare system and help provide needed items for all areas of the hospital,” said Tami Howard, education director at Marshall South. “I am so grateful that the volunteers chose to meet the need in the education department on the South campus by replacing our old tables. I encourage everyone to support our volunteers and their activities throughout the year because they give so much back to our hospitals.”

Volunteers raised money through two $5 jewelry sales in each hospital and gift-wrapping fundraisers during Christmas. Revenue from the two gift shops inside Marshall North and South also helps pay for unbudgeted equipment requests. In the past, the South Auxiliary has purchased sofa beds for patient rooms. The North Auxiliary has funded chest compression machines and new wheelchairs. Both Auxiliaries award scholarships to junior volunteers who want to pursue a medical career.

For information about becoming a hospital volunteer, please call the Volunteer Services department at (256)571-8010 or email rose.myers@mmcenters.com.