For to come upon warblers in early May was to forget time and death.
—Theodore Roethke
It all started when. . .
I first began volunteering at Pete Moore Hospice House in February of 2024. The busy staff had been filling the bird feeders on a catch-as-catch-can basis. Some of the feeders were in serious disrepair and the seeds were moldy or sprouting.
I had trained to volunteer directly with patients. My triage training, however, enabled me to determine that the patients were in excellent hands. The birds needed a bit more help!
Enter Wild Birds Unlimited!
Given the state of the feeders, I knew that this was a job for true professionals. I drove directly to Wild Birds Unlimited where manager Dara Nichols immediately agreed to help. Soon shiny new bird feeders, nutritious seed, and other supplies were donated.
Now, after months of regular maintenance, more birds than ever before are visiting: hummingbirds, juncos, chickadees, towhees, and so many finches!
Now, families and staff take me aside to say how much joy the birds bring them during a difficult time. The birds were in attendance at a recent memorial gathering for families on the beautiful grounds.
How You Can Help!
Make a tax-deductible donation via this link or the QR code below. Choose “PMHH Bird Project” from the drop-down menu.
Buy discounted seed at Wild Birds Unlimited at a generous discount. Say it’s for "Holly Knight/Pete Moore Hospice House.”
Volunteer! The feeders are maintained weekly by a small band of dedicated volunteers whose work is always so appreciated by patients, families, and staff alike.
For more information about donating or volunteering, send an email to hollytom [at] gmail [dot] com.
Current Wish List: Medium sunflower chips, No Mess seed cylinders, Naturally Nuts suet cakes, and window clings to prevent bird strikes.
Scan the QR code and choose “PMHH Bird Project” from the drop-down menu. Thank you for bringing so much joy to the patients, families, staff—and birds!
About Pete Moore Hospice House
Cascade Health’s Pete Moore Hospice House is Lane County’s only hospice house, offering the unique experience of compassionate, culturally sensitive, hospital-level, end-of-life care in a comfortable, secure, and home-like environment.