Service projects this season benefit Augusta University community

There are several local service projects in need of participants this season to benefit Augusta University’s students, patients and families.

“Through these efforts, we hope that our AU family will make the choice to experience the joy of giving when there are so many people that are in need this holiday season,” said Tina Baggott, associate vice president for Volunteer Services and Community Engagement. “Within the Augusta community, there are many ways to help and we have highlighted just a few ways you can ensure that our neighbors across the area have the happiest holiday possible.”

AU Medical Center has two service projects available immediately.

The Center for Patients and Families is collecting new fleece blankets to be distributed to adult inpatients during the holiday season.

Donations may be dropped off in the AUMC Talmadge Wing, room BA 8270. Blankets must be store-bought and never used. Homemade items cannot be accepted. Contact the Center for Patients and Families at 706-721-7322 for more information. Donations will be accepted until Monday, Dec. 16.

Also, the AU VolunJag board is collecting fuzzy socks for patients and families. Socks can be dropped off in room 171 in the Kelly Building on the Health Sciences Campus. The socks must be new. Home-made socks must be pre-washed to be accepted. Contact Jessica Tang, engagement coordinator, with questions.

More information about these service projects will be announced in Jagwire the week of Dec. 2-6:

• Richmond County Intermediate Literacy and Math Center
• Children’s Hospital of Georgia Holiday Wishlist
• Open Paws Pantry
• Ronald McDonald Santa Shop
• Safe Homes of Augusta Angel Tree
• Salvation Army of Augusta Angel Tree

“We are also glad to be able to highlight the needs of our student population through the Open Paws Pantry as well as with our patients and families through blanket and toy drives,” Baggott said. “Any department or individual interested in being connected with a service organization can contact our office at 706-721-3596 and we’ll get you connected with the organization that best matches your interests.”

Learn more about the Office of Volunteer Services and Community Engagement.