Role of Hospitals: Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children

The staff at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children know that it’s hard for “keiki,” which means children, to be in the hospital, especially during the holidays. That’s why the medical center employees host an annual Santa's Workshop toy drive – providing a special gift for every child staying in the hospital during the holidays. Parents can freely select donated presents for their children who are patients, as well as the patient’s siblings.

Individuals, businesses and community groups are encouraged to drop off new and unwrapped gifts for the hospitalized children, ranging in age from newborn to 21 years old. The medical center also seeks donations for moms-to-be who are on bed rest.

The Santa Workshop wish list includes infant items, such as rattles and mobiles; toddler toys, such as shape sets, sensory balls and blocks sets; video games, iPads and action figures for school-aged patients; and gifts for all ages, including dolls, stuffed animals, puzzles and books. Gift ideas for moms-to-be include gift cards, slippers and robes.

Receiving age-appropriate toys allows the medical center to create a better and brighter healing environment for patients. Plus, it takes the burden of shopping off the patients’ parents so they can stay focused on helping their children get better.

“It is amazing to see the giving power of our community, from people who donate the gifts to the people who are decorating and gift wrapping,” said Anj Lum, a Santa’s Workshop volunteer. “It’s just extra meaningful this time of year for families at Kapiolani to feel loved and taken care of. It’s incredible to be a part of it.”