Walgreens Launches 'Swear Jar' For Mental Health During Holidays

DEERFIELD, IL — For the month of December, Walgreens and Mental Health America are teaming up to provide support for mental health this holiday season. Walgreens and MHA are asking people to donate to a virtual "Swear Jar" when they experience the inevitable holiday hiccups that make them want to yell out a "humbug."

The Deerfield-based company said it will be making an initial donation of $500,000 and then doing a dollar for dollar match for all public donations, up to a maximum of an additional $500,000, through Dec. 31. Walgreens hopes to raise $1.5 million with consumers, turning holiday frustrations into support and services for others, according to a news release.

“During the holidays, customers and patients often turn to Walgreens for quick solutions to stressors like finding the perfect last-minute gift or filling a prescription when sick, but we recognize there are often other challenging emotions many face during this busy time of year,” said Pat McLean, chief marketing officer at Walgreens, in the news release.

MHA is the leading community based nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans.

In 2020, depression and anxiety severity among those taking an online screening with Mental Health America reached the highest levels all year during the holiday months — November and December, according to the news release. Contributions from this campaign will go towards helping this holiday season and year-round funding for MHA’s free screening program, public education initiatives, and advocacy efforts to push for access to mental health care for all.

Customers who wish to donate to the ‘Swear Jar’ are encouraged to visit mhanational.org/swearjar and can donate any dollar amount. If you or someone you know needs support this holiday season, visit mhanational.org/holidays for resources and information.