Spirit of the Children Raises $30,000 Toward Child Life Services

Representatives from Spirit Stores presented a check for $30,000 to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) on Thursday, Feb. 12. “We are so grateful for the years Spirit has dedicated to the critical care we provide to our kids,” said Jillian Payne, executive director, LLUCH Foundation. Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich also expressed his appreciation, saying the organization’s ongoing commitment is one that makes a difference to the hospital and the patients it serves. “It is with a grateful heart that I say what they do matters,” he said. Spirit Stores hosted their annual “Spirit of Children” in-store fundraiser in all of their Southern California locations through the Fall 2014 season. Spirit customers were encouraged to donate funds to support LLUCH, which will directly support the child life program at the hospital. Child life specialists work to minimize fears and stress experienced by children, adolescents, and families during hospitalization and develop age appropriate activities for patients ranging in age from birth to young adult. “It’s all about the kids,” said Spirit Store manager, Alta Miller. “Our goal every year is to raise whatever we can.” Over the past five years Spirit of the Children have successfully raised and donated over $188,000 to LLUCH. The organization also hosts a fall festival for patients at the hospital where members of the Spirit field team bring everything that's needed in order to have the best party possible, from costumes to goody bags. On hand for the check presentation was LLUCH patient, Francesca Greico, 3, along with her parents Giselle and Ryan. The family was all smiles as they were headed home to Yucaipa after Francesca had completed her treatment.