Donate Goods

• Used items: Hospital policy requires that all donated toys and dolls be brand new, unopened, and unused in order to ensure the safety of our patients. 

• Oversized toys such as bikes, giant teddy bears, ride-on vehicles, large dollhouses, etc.  

• Gift wrapped items (even for the holidays)  

• Glass, ceramics, or other breakables  

• Flowers or live plants  

• Any items that promote violent and aggressive behavior, including video games  

• Items with religious themes  

• VHS tapes and DVDs  

• Toy collections or collectibles, (even if they have been well-preserved) 

• Food items, including baking sets  

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept handwritten notes for patients for several reasons. Paper is a specific concern for infection control and even the most well-meaning messages can sometimes miss the mark, for instance saying "Get Well" to a child with a chronic condition. Instead, you can add a label to your kits that says something like "Made especially for you by Girl Scout Troop #22!" and/or decorate with fun stickers. 

All donations are evaluated for safety and appropriateness. Upon receiving donations, staff will carefully inspect each item.

Acceptable handmade items include blankets, quilts, bags and pillowcases that support long term patient care and meet the following requirements: 

• Created on sanitized surface  

• Individually packaged in individual zip lock bags  

• Pre-washed and dried for 20 minutes in a high heat drier and folded on a clean surface  

• For hand-sewn items: all sewing/crotchet/knitting needles are to be removed and loose string cut and tucked into project for safe handling by patients 

Donors are strongly encouraged to wear gloves and masks while creating handmade items.

For items we are unable to accept, please consider donating to Bambino Thrift Shop where proceeds benefit UCSF BCH Oakland. We also encourage you to support your local shelter.

Breast milk: We are unable to accept donated breast milk. Please consider Mother's Milk.

Clothing donations: We have a limited need but can sometimes accept donations of brand-new clothes for our Social Services department. Email [email protected] for more information.  

Entertainment or educational experiences: We are currently hosting virtual visits for the safety of our patients. Reach out to Child Life Special Events Coordinator Deidre Almanzan at [email protected] for more information.

Food donations: We accept individually packaged, shelf stable snacks for parents to stock our family resource centers. Email [email protected] for more information. 

Hair: We are unable to accept donated hair. Please consider Locks of Love.

Handmade items: We are unable to accept handmade caps and clothing. We do have a limited need for handmade blankets so please email [email protected] for more info.

Medical equipment and supplies: We cannot accept used items under any circumstances, but can sometimes take brand-new items. Email [email protected] for more information.

Vehicle donations: Donate your car, truck, boat or motorcycle to benefit our hospital! Contact our local partner, Car Donation Services at 925-229-5444 or visit this site for more information.