Southtowne Rotary Hospital Supply Distribution Project

Over a decade ago, Eugene Southtowne Rotary launched a life-changing initiative when charter member Lauren Alexander persuaded PeaceHealth RiverBend to donate their surplus medical supplies and equipment. Rather than let these valuable resources go to waste, Lauren found ways to get them to communities in need around the world.
 
What began in donated spaces—even an old truck trailer—has now grown into a robust international project with global reach.
What We Distribute:

  • Durable medical equipment: hospital beds, exam tables, IV poles, tray tables
  • Disposable supplies: PPE, needles, bandages, catheters, IV lines, surgical drapes, and more

Where It Comes From:

  • Local and regional hospitals and other clinics
  • Occasional donations from other medical providers and organizations

Our Process:

Collected items are sorted, inventoried, and prepped for shipment. We have sent huge containers, smaller cargo boxes, and hand-carried items for medical missions. Recipients are in countries like the Dominican Republic, Peru, Nigeria, the Philippines, and even here in Lane County.

Powered By Volunteers:

From pickup to packing, this project runs on community power.

  • A core team of dedicated volunteers handles collection and sorting
  • Up to 20 volunteers help load each shipping container
  • Volunteers include Rotary members, retired medical professionals, supporters, and High School Interact Club students

Why It Matters:

This project supports two of Rotary International’s key focus areas:

  • Health: Providing life-saving tools to clinics and hospitals worldwide
  • Environment: Diverting tons of usable supplies from landfills

Get Involved:

Want to help? Whether you’re a medical professional, business owner, or someone who wants to make a tangible difference, your support matters.

  • Donate medical supplies or equipment
  • Volunteer for loading and sorting days
  • Help us fund shipping costs

Contact us to learn more about how to contribute to this meaningful work. Every box packed and every hour volunteered makes a life-saving difference. Contact our project chair to learn more:
📞 John Pfanner – 541-852-3529