In a heartfelt initiative, the Little Saint Nick Foundation is making hospital stays brighter for children in Tampa Bay by delivering gift bags this holiday season.
The holiday season can be particularly challenging for children confined to hospital beds. However, a Tampa organization is working to change that narrative. Inspired by his own experience, Raymond Mohler, who suffered a traumatic hospital experience at the age of four, founded the Little Saint Nick Foundation when he was only six years old. The foundation, dedicated to supporting young patients, has significantly impacted countless lives by distributing gift bags to children in hospitals.
Raymond Mohler’s early encounter with joint disease left a lasting impression. He recalled, “It was really traumatic, and I had no idea what was wrong.” This experience fueled his desire to make a difference, a sentiment he embraced with the support of his parents. Over the years, the Foundation’s mission has touched over two million young lives by providing them with hope and joy during difficult times.
In collaboration with the University of Tampa’s Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs program, the Foundation recently organized a bag-packing event. Participants assembled 250 gift bags destined for Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital. Zoe McAlpin, President of Youth Tampa Entrepreneurs, emphasized the importance of philanthropy saying, “It’s really important for us to give back philanthropically. And what Ray Little St Nick does is amazing.”
Among the volunteers was Siena Morandi, a University of Tampa student and former recipient of the Foundation’s gift bags. Her personal connection to the cause added depth to her volunteering efforts. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude, “When I got the bag, I was filled with joy because it was a really rough time for me.” Her story underscores how small acts of kindness can uplift spirits in challenging circumstances.
The gift bags, which cost just $10 each to assemble, contain a coloring book, coloring pencils, a stuffed animal, and a handwritten note, offering children moments of comfort and distraction. Volunteers at the Foundation strive to instill the values of generosity and compassion in future generations, as Mohler noted, “They take those values of giving back and doing good throughout their daily lives.”
Since its inception, the Little Saint Nick Foundation has distributed 100,000 gift bags, demonstrating a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of sick children. This initiative not only provides cheer but also inspires youth to contribute meaningfully to their communities, proving that even the smallest gesture can create a ripple effect of positivity.
Through the selfless efforts of the Little Saint Nick Foundation and its partners, hospitalized children in Tampa Bay receive a message of hope and caring during the holiday season, reinforcing the value of community and compassion.
Source: Fox13news
