Compassion in Every Season: The All-Weather Wellness Fund

Nashville General Hospital (NGH), Middle Tennessee’s public safety-net hospital, in conjunction with the Nashville General Hospital Foundation, is pleased to announce the creation of the All-Weather Wellness Fund.  

The All-Weather Wellness Fund was born from a simple yet profound realization: many patients arrive at NGH lacking essential items such as clothing and footwear. The fund provides critical resources like new shoes, coats, t-shirts, hats, gloves, and sweatshirts, ensuring patients can face any season with dignity and comfort.

“We believe that healthcare extends beyond medical treatment. It's about providing comfort, dignity, and hope to those in need,” said Dr. Joseph Webb, NGH CEO. “The All-Weather Wellness Fund embodies this philosophy by addressing the basic needs of our most vulnerable patients.”

Nashville General is the only middle Tennessee hospital that provides services to all Nashvillians, regardless of the ability to pay. Our uninsured and unhoused patients come from challenging backgrounds and lack basic necessities. They may arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs, which sometimes need to be replaced due to medical procedures. The All-Weather Wellness Fund ensures that these patients leave the hospital with their health restored and their dignity intact.

"When you give a patient a brand-new T-shirt, pair of shorts, or shoes and they see the price tag, it makes them feel like they are worth something and they are somebody,” said Lillian Medina, director of case management and social services, NGH. “For many, this is the first new item they have gotten in a while. They feel special and unique."

Donations will be accepted through October 31st and can be dropped at collection bins located at NGH as well as the various area churches associated with the Congregational Health and Education Network (CHEN.) Items donated must be new. 

New items accepted include:

• Clothing and Footwear: Essential items, particularly for men, i.e., pants, shoes, and socks, are always in high demand. 
• Toiletries: Basic hygiene products such as toothpaste, tampons, and feminine hygiene pads are crucial for maintaining dignity and health.
• Warm-weather items: Underwear for men and women, shorts with an elastic waist (large or above), and Croc-like shoes.
• Winter Gear: During colder months, items such as coats, gloves, hats, and scarves are essential for our homeless and low-income patients.

Monetary contributions are also accepted. Click here to make a tax-deductible financial donation to the All-Weather Wellness Fund, or contact Kate Haygood with the NGH Foundation at 615-341-4235.

Please join us in making a difference in our community through acts of kindness that restore dignity and humanity. The All-Weather Wellness Fund is a testament to the power of community and compassion. With your help, we can continue to provide essential items that offer comfort, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Cathy Poole, chief marketing officer, NGH at cathy.poole@nashvilleha.org