December saw 120 children’s lives brightened with 340 gifts, as families who are facing the death of a loved one received gifts of every shape and size. The gift frenzy began Dec. 15, as children relaxed with pizza and games at Greenacres Bowl, only to be interrupted by the Ladies of Harley-Davidson “Santa and Elves” motorcade stacked with presents.
“The Ladies of Harley make this their mission every year,” said Rex Ford, president of the Hospice Foundation of Palm Beach County, which sponsors the bowling party and pizza each year. “They brought iTunes gift cards for 45 children, and Walgreens sponsored with gifts for everyone as well. Each year I’m amazed at the frenzy of faces lit up and wrapping paper torn off by little hands.”
Hospice of Palm Beach County employees finish off the gift drive to make sure that every child receives at least one present to brighten a difficult time in their life. This year, employees donated 250 gifts by the gift drive’s end on Dec. 22.
“The joy of giving becomes contagious,” said Chelsea Johnson, supportive care manager at Hospice of Palm Beach County. “We want each family to be overwhelmed with gifts from us, and I think we enjoy it as much as the children do.”
Hospice of Palm Beach County is a leading provider of hospice care in the community. When a cure is no longer an option, Hospice puts the needs of patients and families first and is committed to doing whatever it takes to provide compassionate care and ensure the highest possible quality of life.
For more information, call (561) 228-5140 or visit www.hpbc.com.
Above: “Santa” Chuck Flanders and his “elf” Cheryl Gathagan with Mary Dee and John Paul Condic.
