Saint Francis Maternity Unit Receives Valentine’s Day Donations
March 3, 2025Categories: Colleague Corner
Gretchen McInvale, a former kindergarten teacher from Portland, has been delivering Valentine’s Day gifts to the Saint Francis Maternity Unit for 37 years. Up until her retirement five years ago, Gretchen’s deliveries were a field trip with her class, but she has continued the tradition to help, in her own words, “spread the love."
Gretchen McInvale (left) delivered 30 gift bags to the Saint Francis Maternity Unit on Valentine's Day for the 37th year.
This year on Valentine’s Day, Gretchen dropped off 30 gift bags that contained a handmade crocheted blanket and hat from her dear friend Roberta Ritchie, as well as a receiving blanket, outfit, socks, and other necessities for newborns. In addition, a former teaching colleague donated a book for each gift bag.
“We are so thankful that Gretchen continues to visit us each Valentine’s Day with her extremely generous donations for our littlest patients,” said Jane Marozzi, BSN, RN, C-EFM, C-MNN, Nurse Manager for Maternity. “Our colleagues enjoy being able to share the love that Gretchen brings by offering these incredible gifts to families in need.”
Gretchen manages the donations through her Keep a Baby Warm non-profit organization, which is dedicated to providing warm clothing to newborns, regardless of socioeconomic standing.