Sawtooth Mountain Clinic’s Giving Tree Program supports those in need

Almost a decade ago, the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic introduced the Giving Tree Program to aid those facing various health or medical care challenges. Generous donations support the program, providing assistance and resources to Cook County individuals and families in need. It offers essentials such as fuel cards, grocery cards, fresh produce vouchers, and lodging vouchers for individuals traveling to Duluth or beyond for medical appointments.

“It’s always been a very well-utilized program,” Liv Thompson, the outreach coordinator with Sawtooth Mountain Clinic, said. “Especially during the pandemic, we saw a huge boom in donations.”

As the number of donations has increased, Thompson said the number of individuals and families seeking additional support in Cook County has, too. While Thompson said the clinic doesn’t keep detailed records “of who gets what,” the clinic has seen “an uptick in people needing those resources.”

“If there’s a need, you’ll get a card,” she said.

Each year, the clinic purchases 200 gas cards and 100 grocery vouchers with donations, and each year, Thompson said, “We’ll use all of those.”

The Giving Tree Program is offered year-round, and individuals or families needing a gas card, grocery, or lodging voucher are encouraged to talk to their provider at the clinic or hospital; no application process is required.

“It’s a cool program because 100 percent of what you donate is just going to go straight to your neighbors. Your fellow community members and also supporting some local businesses as well,” Thompson said. “So I think it’s a cool way to support your community.”

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Liv Thompson about the Giving Tree Program at Sawtooth Mountain Clinic. The audio from the interview is below.

Kalli Hawkins December 28, 2023