Merry Mixers Deliver Salem Hospital Record $132K Gift For Pediatric Patient Care

SALEM, MA — Salem Hospital received a record-breaking $132,000 donation from the Merry Mixers, a volunteer organization that is marking its 76th year of support for children and families on the North Shore.

This year's gift will support the Merry Mixers Patient in Need Fund and also establish the Merry Mixers Pediatric Patient in Need Endowment, a permanent funding source for pediatric patients and families facing financial hardship.

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Founded in 1950, the Merry Mixers raises money to benefit Salem Hospital through community fundraising events.

According to the group, the new endowment is designed to provide immediate support to pediatric patients and families for generations to come, while the Patient in Need Fund helps Salem Hospital respond to urgent needs as they arise.

The funds raised will directly benefit children and families by covering essential items and services that are not typically covered by insurance. That includes safe car seats for newborns, transportation assistance for families visiting hospitalized children, warm clothing and other necessities that directly affect a child’s well-being.

The fund also allows clinicians to respond quickly to families' most pressing needs during difficult periods.

"We couldn't have accomplished this record-breaking year without the incredible women on this year's board," said co-chair Beth Melander. "Everyone gave so much of their time and energy to make every event a success. Most of all, we're so grateful to our amazing community for showing up in such a big way — through incredible attendance, generous sponsorships, and unwavering support.

"It truly took all of us, and I'm so thankful to everyone who helped make this year so special."

Co-chair Amy Leamon said the group sees the new endowment as a long-term commitment to local families.

"This year, we are proud to have established the Merry Mixers Pediatric Patient in Need Endowment, creating a permanent source of funding that will provide immediate support to pediatric patients and families facing financial hardship," Leamon said. "This lasting legacy ensures Salem Hospital can continue to meet families' most urgent needs for generations to come."

The Merry Mixers hosts several annual fundraising events that are open to the community throughout the year, including the 50/50 Raffle, Galentine's Night Out, the Merry Mixers Tennis Open and the group's annual gala.

For more information about the Merry Mixers or to learn how to get involved, contact merrymixer@gmail.com.