Over the past few months, the UPMC Horizon and Jameson Foundations have had the privilege of seeing the next generation of giving in action through young people finding thoughtful and meaningful ways to make a difference for others.
This spring, the elementary-age members of the Crochet Club at the Greenville Area Public Library chose to support young patients at UPMC Horizon through The Jared Box Project. The talented and generous students put together several boxes filled with small toys and activities to help make hospital visits a little less intimidating and stressful for children.
More recently, UPMC Jameson welcomed Charli’s Comfort Project, which delivered care packages and toys for some of the hospital’s youngest patients.
Founded by Tammy Smith after her daughter Charli experienced a hospital stay of her own, Charli’s Comfort Project was inspired by Charli’s desire to help other children facing difficult situations feel a little less scared and alone. During their visit, Charli and the Project shared care packages with teams from UPMC Jameson’s Emergency Department and Rehabilitation Institute, both of which regularly care for pediatric patients. The packages included stuffed animals, coloring activities, crayons, and other toys to help bring comfort during a stressful time.
These gifts may be small, but their impact can be anything but. Whether it is a group of young students coming together to brighten a child’s hospital visit or one child’s experience inspiring a mission to comfort others, these stories are reminders that generosity can begin at any age.
We are proud to be part of a community where the next generation is already doing just that. Thank you to the Greenville Area Public Library Crochet Club, Charli, Tammy, and everyone involved with Charli’s Comfort Project for showing that small hands can make a big difference.
