2026 Salem Health Holiday Drive kicks off Nov. 16

The Salem Health holiday drive officially begins on November 16, marking the start of a multi-week effort to collect essential supplies for children and teenagers across the region.

Running through December 4, the initiative invites both staff and community members to contribute items ranging from new, unwrapped toys to practical necessities like winter jackets and undergarments.

According to Salem Health, the drive seeks to address the needs of families with babies, as well as young adults up to the age of 21.

“We take a very regional approach to the organizations that we support,” said Tarah Lavery, community outreach and event coordinator. “Toys will stay local to where they get donated. Toys donated at West Valley Hospital, for example, will go to Polk CASA or the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.”

While toy drives often focus on younger children, organizers are making a concerted effort to include gifts tailored for older youth, such as makeup kits and wireless earbuds.

“We always get stuff for the young kids,” Lavery said. “We’re also looking for gifts that teenagers would like — makeup kits, wireless earbuds, those kinds of things. It’s not just the little ones who need gifts, but older kids, too.”

Last year, Salem Health donated over 500 items, including clothing and toys. Beyond playthings, organizers highlight a persistent demand for basic apparel, noting that families receiving food and supply boxes through partner agencies often lack sufficient access to new socks and undergarments.

Donations collected during the drive will be distributed to a network of local agencies, including the Salvation Army in Salem-Keizer, Polk CASA, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Love Santa in Woodburn, and the Santiam Teen Center.

Public drop zones are available in the lobbies of Salem Hospital Buildings A, B, C, D, and M. Residents near West Valley Hospital can utilize the Salem Health Specialty Clinic in Dallas as a primary drop-off location.

Community members interested in contributing items can also reference an Amazon Wish List. This platform offers gift ideas and allows donors to ship items directly to the hospital for distribution. As the November 16 start date approaches, the drive serves as a reminder of the ongoing needs of families in the region, where donations of clothing or electronics can assist during the winter season.

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