For the past decade, North Babylon High School sophomore Emily Meyer has made it her mission to provide gifts to hospitalized children during the holidays.
On Christmas night in 2009, Emily became sick and was admitted to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip where she had her first encounter with the hospital’s Child Life Program.
Through specially trained and certified child life specialists, the program helps children to learn about the hospital, as well as provides therapeutic play and support for patients and their families.
After receiving a large gift bag filled with toys from a Child Life representative in 2009, Emily was determined to provide that same experience to others. Every year since then, she asks for donations of new, unwrapped toys to be donated to Good Samaritan, as well as Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Stony Brook University Hospital, the John Theissen Foundation, Angela’s House and the Ronald McDonald House.
Donations can be picked up from any location by contacting Emily directly at em1810@yahoo.com. Emily has also partnered with the North Babylon Union Free School District, which has set up donation boxes in the main lobby of each school for students to donate new toys.
“My goal this year is to match the 2,500+ toys collected and delivered last year and bring joy to the children that need it most,” Emily said. “Thank you so much for your help and Happy Holidays!”
Photo captions: North Babylon High School sophomore Emily Meyer donates gifts to hospitalized children during the holidays.
Photos courtesy of the North Babylon Union Free School District
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