Volunteers Needed at Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill in Smyrna

The cotton candy booth run by volunteers from St. George’s Tech was popular at the 2017 Family & Friends Day at the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill. Pictured are Hope Mintzer and Alyssa McGinnis.

NEW CASTLE (Aug. 21, 2019) – The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill (DHCI) is seeking community volunteers to assist residents during its upcoming Family & Friends Day event at the facility’s grounds in Smyrna.

Volunteers are needed to help make sure all of the residents are able to enjoy the day’s activities. Groups and organizations are encouraged to volunteer. All of the events will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, at DHCI, 100 Sunnyside Road in Smyrna.

“Family and Friends Day at the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is truly an event that our residents look forward to year after year,” said Dava Newnam, Director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities. “Each of our residents leaves an imprint on the hearts of our staff and volunteers as they gather to celebrate, connect, and have a great time. We are excited to work with our returning and new volunteers at this event.”

The Red, White & Blue themed party will include a BBQ lunch, water ice, popcorn and cotton candy. There will be plenty of activities for volunteers to help residents with and a DJ will provide music to go along with the day’s events.

“Volunteers help us make sure none of our residents feel alone, even those without family,” said Jennifer Bobel, volunteer services coordinator at DHCI. “For a day, these volunteers become family and friends, helping make the day a special one for all the residents.”

The Women’s Auxiliary Gift Shop will be open during the event. All proceeds from sales benefit the residents.

If you or your group is interested in volunteering for the Sept. 14 event, contact Jennifer Bobel, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at Jennifer.Bobel@delaware.gov or call 302-223-1011 no later than Aug. 26. Be sure to leave contact information.

Year-round volunteers also are needed to make a difference in the lives of residents with chronic illnesses who are receiving long-term care at DHCI. You can go to the DHCI website at www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dsaapd/volopp.html to download an application packet and more information about volunteering.

Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is a long-term care facility operated by DHSS. Admission requires both a financial and medical need.