Virtual Toy Drive raised more than $21K

The recent holidays were merry and bright for hospitalized kids, thanks to the $21,550 raised during the 2023 Virtual Toy Drive. This exceeded the event’s funding goal of $20,000.

In addition to the monetary donations, a total of 279 toys were purchased by donors from an Amazon wish list, which delivered items directly to UC Davis Children’s Hospital. 

“Every year, the generosity and giving continue to amaze me. Without the support, our department would not have the resources to provide a fun-filled holiday season with gifts and activities for all,” said Diana Sundberg, UC Davis Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department manager. “This holiday season, we were able to share the joy with 251 families who had children undergoing medical treatment. There are no words to describe the appreciation we have for our community!”

The annual toy drive funded the purchase of toys for every hospitalized child, from infants through teens. Toys were also given to pediatric outpatiets in the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center’s pediatric infusion room as well as to children at the Glassrock Clinic and the MIND Institute.

Additional funds will be used to support pediatric patients throughout 2024, providing toys, art supplies, music supplies, treasure box prizes and giveaways during their hospitalization, as well as visits to the Comprehensive Cancer Center, Glassrock Clinic and MIND Institute. Children who celebrate their birthday in the hospital will also receive gifts, thanks to the generosity of donors.

For those who did not have a chance to donate and would like to contribute, the child life fund is still accepting monetary donations. The child life team also has a year-round Amazon wish list.