Compassion Closet supports Hillsboro Medical Center’s ED patients at discharge

Rose Friedlund, a volunteer in the Hillsboro Medical Center Emergency Department (ED), approaches her shifts with a sense of determination. Whether Rose is changing linens in preparation of a new patient, bringing patients wheelchairs, or helping find clean clothes for a patient at discharge, she tackles each task with a strong sense of ownership. 

It’s this dedication to her service that motivated Rose and her husband David to make a generous donation to establish the Hillsboro Medical Center Emergency Department Compassion Closet in May 2025 and commit to matching all gifts to the newly created fund up to $20,000.  

The Compassion Closet provides a consistent supply of new clothes and shoes in a variety of sizes to meet the needs of all ED patients at discharge. The Compassion Closet is stocked with new pants, T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, underwear, socks, sports bras and shoes, all organized by size and easily accessible to staff working in one of the busiest areas of HMC.  

Previously, the Emergency Department relied on a closet of donated items that ranged vastly in size and style that were often inappropriate for patients and difficult for staff to organize. For Rose, the Compassion Closet serves two purposes: it empowers clinical staff to best support patients all the way through discharge by providing them with a reliable resource and ensures that all patients leave the ED with dignity.  

For Megan Murphy, Nurse Leader in the ED, the Compassion Closet has had a profound impact on her experience caring for patients. “I had a patient that was displaced for the night, it was a cold evening, and he was only wearing a cut-off shirt,” Megan said. “I brought him a sweatshirt from the Compassion Closet, some snacks, and a bus pass. He was in tears as he thanked me, which was surprising because we don’t always get this kind of gratitude. It felt good being able to provide this small gesture.” 

We thank all who have been a part of this initiative and invite you to make a gift to the Compassion Closet Fund. And don’t forget, every dollar donated to the Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar, which means your gift will go twice as far!