Five Holiday Donation Gift Ideas for Children's Hospitals
Looking for a good gift to give kids in the hospital? While some hospitals may accept gifts you buy from the store, not all gifts will meet hospital infection rules or are developmentally appropriate for kids.
Consider donating these five hospital-approved Starlight gifts to kids in the hospital for Christmas!
Donation Gift Ideas for Children's Hospitals
1. Toy Deliveries - $25 donation to help deliver a toy to one child
For three-year-old Danika, her leukemia means she stays at the hospital often to undergo many procedures. Frequently staying in the hospital, Danika often feels lonely not having kids her own age around her, but Starlight Toy Deliveries such as a coloring book gave her joy and comfort.
For kids like Danika, toys like LEGO, books, and art & crafts gives them a sense of relief by bringing them closer to what is familiar and reconnecting them to their home life. Playing with toys also gives kids an outlet for their emotions, replacing feelings of loneliness with happiness!
“Starlight provides so many toys for us that we can provide birthday and Christmas gifts or a special incentive when needed. There is always a great variety, so [we can] meet the needs of patients from toddlers to teens. ”
- Stacy, Child Life Specialist
2. Hospital Gowns - $40 donation to fund the delivery of a hospital gown to one child
Living with short bowel syndrome, 13-year-old Bella relies on daily IV nutrition—so when she gets a fever, it can mean something serious. One time, it was a line infection. Instead of visiting family in Mexico, she was stuck in the hospital, feeling bored, in pain, and disappointed.
With her IV pole in tow, Bella made her way to the playroom where slipped into a Ghostbusters-themed Starlight Gown that made her feel like part of the team.
“[This gown is] just way funner,” Bella said. “I want to bring it every time we come.”
These little moments of fun and connection can mean everything during long hospital days.
3. Hero Wagons - $200 donation to fund the delivery of one hero wagon
Edison lives with chronic lung disease, cerebral palsy, sleep apnea, and chronic sinusitis. His hospital journey includes many hospital stays due to a g-tube he had placed, procedures, and pneumonia infections.
The Starlight Hero Wagon made all the difference for Edison and his family. The IV pole attachment makes it convenient for Edison to move around and is much more comfortable.
“[The wagon is] much better than a hospital wheelchair or stroller. He [Edison] felt so comfortable in his own space in the wagon.”
- Mallory, Edison's mom
Gifts for Older Kids & Teens
4. Gaming Handheld - $1,600 donation to fund the delivery of one gaming handheld
The Starlight Nintendo Switch Handheld is a portable Nintendo Switch that can be carried to children's hospital rooms. It is designed to meet hospitals' safety guidelines while providing ease of use. When kids play on the Starlight Handheld, kids find a positive distraction that also provides a sense of normalcy.
5. Gaming Station - $5,000 donation to fund the delivery of one gaming station
Jacob’s pneumonia and shortness of breath caused by hypoxia leads to stays at the hospital. Staying in an unfamiliar environment can cause fear and anxiety, but playing on the Starlight Nintendo Switch Gaming Station helps Jacob feel secure doing something he would normally do at home.
Play through interactive video games helps kids like Jacob process their emotions in the hospital setting and feel more positive about what is happening before and after a procedure.
With your support, we can make the holidays brighter for kids in the over 800 medical facilities in Starlight’s hospital network, many of which serve patients from medically underserved and vulnerable populations.
Every dollar counts towards giving comfort and cheer to children when they need it most.
Give a thoughtful gift by donating Starlight programs to kids in the hospital.
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This blog was last updated October 31, 2025.
