A cancer diagnosis can be a traumatic, life-changing event filled with fear, doubts and isolation. The Holladay community joined together in a Community Comfort Drive in December 2024 to provide comfort items for patients navigating cancer treatment at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Each donation was given with love and hope, to help patients face the unknown and stressful journey through radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures with confidence, courage, and a sense of support and comfort.

According to Holladay Economic Development and Housing Manager and lead chair of the project, Ann Francis Garcia, the service project goal was to create an avenue for the community to get involved and give back to those in need. It was coordinated to benefit individuals who find themselves in what might be the most challenging situation of their lives. Whether it be a family member, friend, or coworker who has received a cancer diagnosis, most everyone in the community has been impacted by this disease in some way.

“When I started at the city of Holladay, and the holidays were coming up, I asked if we could coordinate a donation drive,” Garcia said. “The administration directed me to research what we should focus on that year. Cancer was something that has hit my family and close friends, so I contacted the Huntsman Cancer Institute and asked what they needed and how they would use the items. After learning more about their donation program and specific requests, I suggested we focus on this cause benefiting the Huntsman Cancer Institute.”

The Unified Fire Authority, Unified Police Department, Holladay Precinct, local businesses, schools, and residents all supported the donation drive. Multiple drop-off locations were established throughout the community, making it easy for residents to participate. The collected donations benefited the Huntsman Cancer Institute including 170 blankets, 40 pairs of cozy socks, 110 hats/beanies, 60 sweatshirts/pants, 225 boxes of colored pencils, crayons, pens, 165 activity books, and over 100 various supportive supplies.

Mayor Rob Dahle joined the Comfort Drive committee in delivering the donated items to the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Miss Salt Lake County was there, showing support of the Comfort Drive as well as personnel from the Institute.

“Christopher Moss, the gentleman that coordinated the event, welcomed us when we arrived and commented that the Institute had literally just given away their last blanket,” Dahle said. “We delivered 170 blankets along with a huge truckload of other items. Unified Police Department, Holladay Precinct delivered a lot of donations as well. Ann Francis deserves big kudos for chairing the event. The delivery was a great way to start the day. A very fun and heartwarming event.” 

“These comfort items can’t cure anyone of cancer,” Garcia said. “However, they can provide an avenue to show that we care and may help calm a stressful situation.” λ