The Minisink Valley High School Key Club recently delivered toys it collected from its recent toy drive to Garnet Medical Center’s Pediatric Unit.

During the recent holiday season, club members collected new, unwrapped toys for pediatric patients to brighten their days while in the hospital. An assortment of children’s books, board games, Matchbox cars and stuffed animals were among the items collected.

“These items can then be used by children in their hospital beds or in waiting rooms as focusing on playing with these toys, rather than their pain, helps them to heal,” said Key Club President Olivia Lombardo.

Hospital officials said the toys would be put to good use.

“Daily, we serve our youngest people in same day surgery, blood lab, pediatric primary care, Emergency Department, Urgent Care and the inpatient unit,” Garnet Health Director of Development Pamela Yosh told the group. “They are mostly scared, uncertain, fearful and some in pain. We are so grateful that Minisink Key Club hosted a toy drive this year.”