Would you like to help the local Pediatric Unit? 

Judy Wicharuk, acute care manager of the Pediatric, Women’s Health, and Surgical Units at the Dr F H Wigmore Regional Hospital, said that donations of easy-to-wash toys are welcome. 

“We do have quite an assortment of toys; however, they do walk off sometimes, and they do get old," said Wicharuk. 

“It was brought to our attention here that there’s probably just some different needs.” 

She said that she sat down with the staff to discuss what they’re looking for, and came up with some ideas of what people could purchase and donate to diversify their offerings to patients: 

  • washable or wipeable puzzles and books 
  • bath toys 
  • girl toys 
  • sensory toys 
  • Little People toys 
  • baby toys including rattles and mobiles that babies can lay under 

She said they avoid communal use of items that are difficult to wash, such as stuffed animals or regular puzzles and coloring books. However, she noted that they can also package toys or activities for children of different ages to take home and use individually.  

Monetary donations can be made to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation indicating what you’d like it to be used for. Physical toys can be given to the Pediatric Unit at the hospital.  

Wicharuk said that they’ve recently also learned that TVs will be repaired throughout the hospital. “That in itself will give a form of entertainment and distraction to our patients.” 

“We’re hoping that happens by end of summer, beginning of fall, that we’ll have all the TVs up and running.”