HERSHEY, Pa. — Patients at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital enjoyed a festive Halloween celebration today, thanks to Spirit of Children. The event, complete with costumes, games and crafts, brought smiles and excitement to the children and their families.
The Halloween celebration also recognized a remarkable achievement — Spirit of Children recently surpassed $1 million in donations to the Children’s Hospital. Since 2009, Spirit of Children has raised a total of $1,033,981, supporting the hospital’s Child Life Program. The funds have been instrumental in providing age-appropriate programming, hiring staff, enhancing educational resources and purchasing sensory tools that aid in the emotional and psychological well-being of young patients.
“The Spirit of Children Halloween party brings a smile to those facing medical hardships, offering a much-needed sense of joy and normalcy. As a proud sponsor of Child Life at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, Children’s Miracle Network has witnessed the many ways the program helps to heal,” said Katie Anderson, director of Children’s Miracle Network.
Since its inception in 2006, Spirit of Children has raised more than $127 million for Child Life departments at over 150 partner hospitals across North America. Donations collected at Spirit Halloween stores stay within local communities, with all funds supporting Child Life programs.