Toy Drive For Lurie Children’s Hospital

Dec 20, 2024

The annual Toy Drive for Lurie Children’s Hospital was a huge success! Thank you to all who donated to Colleen Cares Organization to make this possible. Because of you, we raised $1,600 and very ill children who were unable to go home for Christmas were gifted toys that were sure to put a smile on their face.

The Division of Family Services at Lurie Children’s, in memory of Colleen Gleason, purchased meaningful toys and items to meet the needs of patients of all ages and abilities. Toys, games and items were given to patients and used to stock playrooms and the Panda Cares Center of Hope.

The Gleason family spent multiple Christmas holidays in the hospital with Colleen and we know how this act of kindness and generosity lifts spirits. Colleen’s giving spirit reminds us again and again how simple it is to bring smiles to children in need, especially during the holiday season. We fondly remember when Colleen led the way in organizing her own toy drive while she herself was a patient waiting for her second heart transplant. Colleen Cares Organization and the Gleason family has continued this toy drive every year.

You have our gratitude for considering us this holiday season in your year-end giving.

A popular game this year!

So many wish list items delighted the children this year.

Because of you, patients and families experiencing medical crises are being supported in many meaningful ways.

Because of you, Lurie Children’s continues to be a safe and healing place for children and families.

Here is Colleen dressed as Mrs. Claus at a holiday gathering event.

We love all the smiles!

Colleen’s smile is etched in our hearts and her giving spirit drives

Thank you again for your generous donations. Together we truly can make a difference in the lives of these children and their families.