SALEM — The Merry Mixers celebrated their 76th year by presenting Salem Hospital with a record-breaking donation of $132,000 to support the Merry Mixers Patient in Need Fund. This year’s gift also marks the establishment of 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 for generations to come.
“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.”
Founded in 1950, the Merry Mixers is a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting children and families through fundraising efforts that benefit Salem Hospital.
The funds raised will directly benefit children and families by providing critical, immediate support to pediatric patients experiencing financial hardship. The Patient in Need Fund helps cover essential items and services not typically covered by insurance, including safe car seats for newborns, transportation assistance for families visiting hospitalized children, warm clothing, and other necessities that directly impact a child’s well-being. The fund empowers clinicians to respond quickly and thoughtfully to families’ most urgent needs during difficult times.
“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,” said co-chair Amy Leamon. “This lasting legacy ensures Salem Hospital can continue to meet families’ most urgent needs for generations to come.”
Thanks to the generosity of donors, the Patient in Need Fund supports pediatric care across Salem Hospital, including Labor & Delivery, the Special Care Nursery, Pediatric Emergency Services, and Pediatric Psychology.
Throughout the year, the Merry Mixers host several signature fundraising events open to the community, including the 50/50 Raffle, Galentine’s Night Out, the Merry Mixers Tennis Open, and the organization’s annual gala.
For more information about the Merry Mixers or to learn how to get involved, contact merrymixer@gmail.com.