How to Send Cards to St Jude Patients
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, accepts cards from the public to support patients and families. The hospital treats children with catastrophic diseases and shares treatment breakthroughs freely. St. Jude's patient care model is funded largely by public donations, and the hospital does not bill families for treatment. You can send cards through the hospital's official mailroom, which is managed by patient services and volunteer coordination teams. Cards are reviewed for safety and privacy before delivery to inpatient and outpatient units. The hospital publishes clear guidelines to help supporters send cards efficiently and securely.
Before mailing, check the current address and any restrictions on items such as balloons, large packages, or food. St. Jude's official website lists the preferred mailing address and updates on any seasonal changes in card processing. You can also contact the hospital's main line to confirm the latest mailing instructions. Use sturdy envelopes and avoid glitter, stickers, or loose items that could pose safety risks in clinical areas. Include only the patient's first name and room number if known, and never include personal identifying details beyond what the hospital allows. This helps protect patient privacy and keeps delivery smooth.
St Jude Card Mailing Rules and Address
The hospital's main mailing address for patient cards is publicly listed on its official contact page, and supporters are encouraged to use that address to ensure timely delivery. Cards are typically routed through a central processing area where they are screened and distributed to the appropriate floors. St. Jude does not accept packages larger than standard letter size without prior arrangement, and certain items such as latex balloons, live plants, and perishable food are prohibited for safety reasons. The hospital's patient services team can answer specific questions about mailing limits, prohibited items, and seasonal delivery windows.
St. Jude's commitment to treating all children regardless of a family's ability to pay is a core part of its mission, and cards are one way the public can show support. The hospital's leadership and clinical teams focus on research and care, while volunteer services manage incoming mail and ensure cards reach patients safely. Supporters can also learn about other ways to help, such as financial donations and organized drives, through the hospital's official giving pages. Clear rules and a single public address make it easy for anyone to send cards without confusion.
Best Practices for Sending Cards to St Jude Patients
Use simple, heartfelt messages that are appropriate for a pediatric hospital setting, and avoid religious or political content that may not be suitable for all patients. Handwritten cards are welcome, but make sure the handwriting is legible and the ink does not smudge easily. If you are organizing a group card effort, assign one person to collect, review, and mail the cards to avoid overwhelming the hospital's mailroom. You can also include drawings or stickers that are flat and securely attached to the page.
For large-scale card campaigns, schools, faith groups, and companies often coordinate with St. Jude's community engagement team to schedule deliveries and confirm volume limits. The hospital's public affairs office can provide guidance on timing, especially during high-admission periods or holidays when mail volume increases. Supporters interested in deeper involvement can explore volunteer programs, fundraising events, and corporate partnerships listed on the hospital's official site. Following the published rules and using the official address helps ensure every card reaches a patient safely and respectfully.