Fun activities, emergency vehicles to make happy memories at Touch a Truck Back-to-School Supply Drive

A favorite summer tradition returns to HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital on July 17, when the hospital hosts the popular Touch a Truck Back-to-School Supply Drive from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the public.
 
Pediatric patients at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital and members of the community will get to see emergency vehicles up close, with a private time scheduled for patients. Other activities for the event located in front of the hospital will include temporary tattoos, bubble machines and fun photo opportunities.
 
In case of rain, members of the public will still have the opportunity to meet local police, firefighters and other first responders in the Tea Room located in the lobby of the children’s hospital.
 
“At HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital, we know how important it is for kids to feel confident and prepared,” said Abigail Salzeider, MSNED, RN, Nurse Manager of Pediatrics and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the children’s hospital. “Equipping local students with the school supplies they need for a successful academic year is a small way we can support families in our community. Seeing kids’ faces light up when they climb into a fire truck and talk with our first responders makes this event memorable for all.”
 
To purchase items for the Touch a Truck event and find a list of needed school supply items, view the Amazon Wish List by visiting https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/SGYM6QXP3IG3?ref_=wl_share.
 
New school supplies for the drive can be donated at the locations below through July 14 or at the event.  Members of the public are welcome to bring donations and see emergency vehicles up close during the event on July 17.
 
Drop off donations during business hours at:
 
HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital lobby
800 E. Carpenter St., Springfield
 
SIU Women and Children’s Clinic
400 N. 9th St., Springfield
 
America Ambulance
755 Apple Orchard Rd., Springfield
 
Contributions may be mailed to:
HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital
ATTN: Touch a Truck, Abigail Salzeider
800 E. Carpenter St., Springfield, IL 62769
 
For more information about HSHS St. John’s Hospital, visit st-johns.org.