Many large hospitals have a special team made up of committed men and women who volunteer their time answering phones, directing visitors, staffing waiting rooms, transporting patients and other behind the scene efforts.

Unlike other hospitals, Mississippi State Hospital, which includes Jaquith Nursing Home and Community Services, has a very special clientele that requires a different type of volunteer. Our volunteers are caring, compassionate people who donate their time to visit, provide refreshments, entertainment and fellowship with our patients and residents as well as make monetary donations dedicated to certain programs or buildings.

Our volunteers consist of families, church groups, business organizations, sororities, fraternities, civic groups and clubs. Some of our groups have been coming to MSH for many years.

The Christmas season offers many opportunities for volunteers. The MSH “Christmas House” is the center for all yuletide activities. The Christmas House receives donations of leisure and personal care items and clothing as well as monetary donations that are used to supplement gift bags delivered on Santa Day, a day set aside each year that utilizes volunteers to act as Santa. Santa and Santa's helpers deliver gift bags and bags of fruit and candy to patients, residents and individuals served in the community. This season is usually the busiest time for parties and dinners. Santa is always a hit at these.

There are so many ways to volunteer at Mississippi State Hospital, Jaquith Nursing Home and Community Services. Our patients' and residents' lives are enhanced significantly when people in the community, like you, care enough to provide a little joy and diversion to their day.

If you would like more information, call Sheila Shows, Volunteer Services Director, at 601-351-8377.