Donating to Child Life: FAQs
Announcements
Please review our visitor guidelines before visiting this location. Keeping everyone safe is our top priority. We appreciate your support of our efforts.
How do I go about donating?
Please email childlifedonations@duke.edu regarding your interest.
A Child Life staff member will contact you and can offer ways you or your group can support Child Life that will be beneficial and needed for the hospital and clinic areas.
Once you have the donation items ready to deliver, please email childlifedonations@duke.edu to arrange a drop-off time at the Children’s Health Center. A Child Life staff member will meet you to accept your items on behalf of our patients.
May I deliver my gifts directly to patients?
Due to patient confidentiality and infection control, our donors cannot deliver gifts directly to patients. We are happy to accept them on behalf of the children and ensure the items are in the proper place for use in the hospital and clinics.
What is the mailing address? I don't live nearby and want to send a donation.
Duke Children’s Hospital
ATTN: Child Life
Children's Health Center 1st Floor - Room 1903
Durham, NC 27710
NOTE: Please email childlifedonations@duke.edu before or when mailing your items so a member of our Child Life team can expect your gift.
Do you accept used stuffed animals, toys, and books?
We cannot accept used stuffed animals, toys, or books due to our infection control policy and allergies that some children may have. Sometimes shelters and churches accept these items.
Are there other items you don't accept?
We cannot accept food items for patients due to dietary restrictions. We have a wonderful food service program that provides patients with snacks and meals.
We also cannot accept any toys that have been recalled, represent violence, are magnetic, or pose a safety risk to children.
Is it ok if I wrap my gift?
We appreciate your thoughtfulness, but please leave toys unwrapped so we can quickly identify and share them with patients. I
f you are interested, we welcome your donations of kid-themed or seasonal wrapping paper rolls with your gift items.
May I give a big-ticket item or a financial donation?
We would love that support! Please email childlifedonations@duke.edu to discuss your donation.