How Hospitals Support Kids During the Holidays

The holidays are a time of togetherness, warmth and celebration.

Still, for kids who are hospitalized during the holidays, they often miss out on traditions and gatherings. 

That’s why children’s hospitals prepare special surprises and celebrations for patients to experience holiday cheer! 

Here are different ways that children’s hospitals in Starlight’s 800+ medical facility network, ensure kids don’t miss out on the holidays. 

1. Keep Spirits Bright

Familiar items bring kids comfort and joy. Hospitals like Levine Children’s decorate childrens’ rooms to keep festivities bright.

Oftentimes, hospitals deck out their exterior and interior with playful holiday decorations, like Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. 

2. Jingle & Mindle: Gathering for Good Cheer

Family may be unable to travel to see loved ones. Hospital holiday parties, like this one at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, give kids and their families a chance to socialize and connect with others. 

3. Light & Laughter: Special Crafts & Activities

John Hopkin’s Children’s Centered celebrated Hannakuh with a special craft for patients. 

4. Santa Paws and Festive Surprises

Hospitals invite familiar characters (and dogs) decked out in Christmas gear. 

5. Parade of Lights

Sometimes hospitals put on parades that invite community members to gather, sing and celebrate. Patients join in on fantastic views from their hospital rooms like they did at Rady Children’s Hospital. 

6. Holiday Stores

Between care giving and hospital stays, families often don’t have time to go Christmas shopping. That’s why hospitals like UC Davis Children’s Hospital put on “holiday stores” for parents to go “shopping” and pick donated gifts for their kids! 

Many of these gifted toys patients receive come from Starlight’s Toy Delivery program. In fact, many hospitals begin planning for the holidays now and rely on partners like Starlight to ensure they have enough toys to go around.  

If you want to donate toys to a children’s hospital this holiday season, donate through Starlight. Our toys are brand-new, hospital-approved and meet strict safety and infection standards. 

All the toys are packed and ready to go. Hospitals across the U.S. need your help to deliver them to their doorsteps. 

We make it easy: you donate, we handle the rest. 

Be a supporter and ensure no child misses out on the magic of childhood – especially during the holidays.