HCMH Auxiliary Care Bags

Caring Through Experience: The Heart Behind HCMH Auxiliary Care Bags

In Humboldt County, compassion runs deep—and nowhere is that more evident than in the story behind the HCMH Auxiliary Care Bags project.

This heartfelt initiative was started by Karen Berte, a devoted volunteer with Genevieve's Giftshop at Humboldt County Memorial Hospital (HCMH). For Karen, this project is more than just a volunteer effort—it’s deeply personal. She knows, firsthand, the overwhelming physical and emotional toll that comes with battling a life-threatening illness.

“I remember how the little things made a difference,” Karen shared. “A cozy blanket, a water bottle when you’re too tired to move, a kind note… they helped me feel like I wasn’t alone.”

Determined to "pay it back" and help others walking a similar path, Karen took the first step by bringing her idea to the HCMH Auxiliary, where she received full support to launch the project. With their encouragement behind her, Karen then presented her vision to 100+ Women Who Care—a local group of women committed to making a collective impact. They believed in the mission and generously provided the seed money needed to get the project off the ground. 

Through the generous support of volunteers, local businesses, and community members, each care bag is filled with comfort items like chap-stick, Kleenex, soft socks, blankets, water bottles, unscented lotion, books, and more. These bags are then given to patients undergoing treatment for serious illnesses—reminding them that someone is thinking of them, cheering them on, and standing with them.

What makes this project even more powerful is its community spirit. “This is more than just a hospital project,” Karen says. “It’s a county-wide effort to let people know they are not forgotten in their fight. We care. HCMH cares. The County of Humboldt cares.”

The Auxiliary is currently accepting both item donations and monetary contributions to help continue and expand the project. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps spread kindness and hope. If you'd like to make a monetary donation you can send payment to: HCMH Auxiliary at 1000 15th St. N. Humboldt, IA 50548 (please put in your memo: "Care Bags"). If you'd like to donate items for the care bags you can do so by dropping off at the front registration desk at HCMH.

To get involved or learn more about the HCMH Auxiliary Care Bags project, contact Karen Berte directly at 515-890-0133.

Because no one should have to face a life-threatening illness alone.

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