How You Can Help Families Right Here in the Ozarks

The holidays are all about hope, generosity, and taking care of our neighbors,  and this year, Q92.9 is teaming up with St. Jude to do exactly that.

Uli recently sat down with Scott Ellis from St. Jude, and we talked about something simple you can do that makes a massive difference for local families going through treatment at the St. Jude Affiliate Clinic right here in Springfield.

Yep, Springfield is home to one of only eight St. Jude affiliate clinics in the entire country. That means local kids and their families can receive world-class care close to home without needing to make constant trips to Memphis. And as Scott shared, one of the biggest needs this holiday season is surprisingly small… but incredibly meaningful.

LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW BELOW:

🎁 What They Need Most: Toys & Clothing

While families are focused on treatment, they often need quick access to things many of us take for granted, a change of clothes, a comforting toy, or something fun to brighten a tough day.

So this year, St. Jude is asking for:

• New, unopened toys
• New clothing items

These gifts go directly to kids and families receiving care at the Springfield clinic. No middleman. No waiting. Just kindness delivered exactly where it’s needed.

📍 Where to Donate

Our friends at U.S. Bank have stepped up in a huge way. All five U.S. Bank locations across Springfield are official drop-off spots for the toy drive, now through Christmas.

Just swing by any location, drop your donated items in the designated area, and Scott himself will deliver everything straight to St. Jude Children’s Reseach Hospital in time for the holiday.

Not sure where the nearest branch is? A quick Google search will point you in the right direction. (Or if you want to throw it back, Ask Jeeves probably still works too.)

💛 Why It Matters

St. Jude is known for never billing families for treatment, travel, housing, or food. But these extras, toys, clothes, comfort items, bring an extra layer of support during some of the toughest moments a family can face.

Every donation stays right here in the Ozarks and goes to local families.

This is community at its best! If you’ve ever been touched by the work of St. Jude, or simply want to brighten a child’s day, this is your chance. Pick up a toy, grab a cozy hoodie or blanket, or pick out something that made you smile as a kid. Small gestures become big moments of comfort. From all of us here at Q92.9, thank you for helping make the season a little brighter for families who need it most!