Students bring gifts to WCHC

Students from Washington Middle School brought dozens homemade gift jars for hospital patients expected to stay at WCHC over the holiday weekend.

“Any unfortunate person that might be in the hospital during that time period, we’re just hoping that when they leave or somewhere during that time period, they can still get some kind of a gift,” said Erik Buchholz, the middle school teacher whose class made the gifts.

Buchholz said the students assembled the presents — a mix of candy jars, gift bags, tied blankets and a snow globe — during class.

“We have what’s referred to as an extension time at the end of every day, and the extension time is designed for the kids to be able to do something that is different than what they might do developing academic skills during the day,” he said. “They tie these blankets, they can do these jars, and know how to make an artistic gift that they can give to somebody at any time for any reason.”

WCHC Marketing Director Amy Vetter said the organization was grateful.

“A hospital stay is never easy, even more difficult over the holidays,” she said. “These gifts, created and delivered by our local middle school students, are sure to bring joy to our patients this Christmas.”

Buchholz said he was thankful as well.

“I’m appreciative of the hospital that lets us do that for the kids, that our administration allows us to do it, and that the kids are willing and wanting to do something people,” he said.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com