Thank you all so much for being willing to help. It is very unfortunate that the system can be difficult and frustrating with mis-information often being given. I am no longer able to donate but, when I used to feel like not bothering because more than likely they'd turn me down, I thought about what if it was me or my child needing it, and I'd go anyway, knowing it might be a waste of time. I wish it were different but we have to work with what we have, at least for now. Thank you all once again. Shelly has enough for now and is very grateful for everyone's help and concern. She is doing quite a bit better.
In terms of the restrictions on donating, they seem to change according to who you ask and where you are trying to give, so best to ask on a case by case basis.
