Children's health support network Chai Lifeline will be distributing more than 50,000 gifts to sick children and their families across the United States and the world this Hanukkah season.
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The organization, which provides emotional and financial assistance to children with life-threatening and lifelong illnesses, works to customize each holiday gift. Choices are made based on specific parameters the drive organizers take into account, including age and specific likes, abilities and hobbies.
"The past year has been dark and challenging for so many families, especially those who have the added difficulties of caring for a child with serious illness," said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline.
"Our volunteers and donors are dedicated to bringing light and happiness back into the lives of these children and their siblings, and Chai Lifeline is honored to be a part of their Hanukkah joy."
Donors supporting the effort can purchase a gift from a Chai Lifeline Amazon wish list and have the item delivered directly to the central packing warehouse in Brooklyn, NY., where volunteers curate, wrap, label and deliver each family's gifts. Recognizing the wide reach of Chai Lifeline, Amazon has designated the organization as one of its top-performing charities of the week.
Donors can also choose to "adopt a family" and purchase suggested holiday gifts for that family anonymously. Local schools, synagogues and community organizations are also hosting toy drives and drop-off locations for gift donations, fostering giving to community members of all ages.
"Seeing the overwhelming response from people around the corner and the world to help fulfill the wishes of these special children is truly beyond words," said Chani Traube, volunteer coordinator of the annual Honey Engel Toy Drive at Chai Lifeline. "The 'thank you' notes and pictures of the smiling children make all of the work and hours put into this experience so worthwhile."
Reprinted with permission from JNS.org.
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