In just a few weeks, holiday shopping will be in full swing, and Arkansas Children's is asking the community to plan ahead to help brighten the season for patients. Supporters can mark their calendars for Dec. 14 for Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive, the health system's largest statewide event.
There are many ways to get involved as Festival of Stars spreads joy on the campuses of Arkansas Children's Hospital (ACH) in Little Rock and Arkansas Children's Northwest (ACNW) in Springdale. Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive welcomes contributions from individuals, community groups, and businesses. Whether it's a new toy or a monetary donation, every contribution makes a difference in brightening the lives of young patients and their families.
This campaign aims to make the season brighter for children and families spending their holidays inside one of Arkansas Children's two hospitals or statewide community clinics. Donations gathered during Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive play a crucial role in stocking the Snowflake Shoppe, a special holiday store at ACH and ACNW. The Snowflake Shoppe allows parents and caregivers to choose free gifts for their hospitalized child and their sibling(s), helping create memorable moments and spreading holiday cheer.
The impact of the toy and donation drive extends far beyond the holiday season. Toy donations collected during Festival of Stars are used year-round with patients at all Arkansas Children's hospitals and clinics. These donations provide comfort, distraction, and smiles to children facing life-altering medical challenges, sick patients visiting the emergency department, and children attending routine checkups. Child life specialists also use the toys as tools during treatment sessions that promote healthy coping and normalize the hospital experience.
"Arkansas Children's is always committed to providing the best care and support to our patients and their families," said Erica Phillips, Arkansas Children's executive director of volunteer engagement and child health resources. "Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive embodies the spirit of compassion and generosity around our state, helping us create magic moments for the children in our care."
Visit archildrens.org/festival for more information.