In our mission to “creating healthier communities” the team at Cary Medical Center hosted a month long collection of personal care items for individuals and families who visit the Caribou Bread of Life Soup Kitchen from time to time for a hot meal.

“The idea was originally presented to us by an attendee at this past year’s Health Fair. She mentioned that there had been several instances when she was serving at the Soup Kitchen and people would ask for personal care items such as shampoo or an extra roll of paper towels” said Casey Bouchard, Communications and Community Relations at Cary Medical Center and Pines Health Services. “Right then and there, I knew we could help with this crucial need. I immediately proposed it to our team, who opened their hearts to the idea and began filling totes which were placed throughout various departments in the hospital.”

The collection of toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, toilet paper, body wash, bar soap, and other related items were collected at the hospital in the month of November. “The timing of the year placed further emphasis on the importance of making sure people had access to everyday essentials. The holidays are an exciting time for most, however not all have the means to basic everyday needs. It was our honor to help those in need and bridge this small gap. The support from hospital staff was overwhelming. Cary Medical Center truly is a shining star when it comes to being a “Community Hospital,” said Bouchard.

All items were presented to the Bread of Life Soup Kitchen during the hospital’s regularly scheduled visit, where a group of Cary volunteers served dinner on Wednesday, December 12^th. Cary volunteers actively serve meals at the Soup Kitchen on the second Wednesday of every month. Items collected at the hospital were left out and taken as needed.

Pictured (L-R) presenting a portion of the items collected were Cary employees and volunteers: Joyce Malone, Jann Jackson, Judy Holmquist, Beth Singer & Margorie Edgecomb