As the weather gets colder, join Project Sunshine in initiatives that will warm your heart.
Project Sunshine is a nonprofit organization with chapters on college campuses across the country. Their mission is to provide free social, educational and recreational programming for children and their families as they face medical challenges.
Stony Brook University’s chapter is dedicated to volunteering weekly in Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, as well as leading initiatives on campus in support of the children and families there. They seek to restore a sense of normalcy to the pediatric healthcare environment and spread cheer to the children undergoing treatment.
“Being a part of Project Sunshine has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have been able to make a difference in so many children’s lives and, in turn, they changed my life,” affirms Ahana Maheshwari, Chapter Leader.
This fall, Project Sunshine partnered with the Faculty Student Association (FSA) on the Plant Sale at CommUniversity Day on September 22. Anthony Gentile, FSA Manager of Machine Operated Services donated spider plants, fig trees and avocado plants that he planted and nurtured in his own home. “I’ve grown these plants, and now I can donate them to a cause where they can be sold to raise money to help children and families that are facing tough times, because I know how difficult it is to go through that,” he said. Through their efforts, they raised over $500 for the national organization. This money will be used to provide more programs and activities for children all over the country.
Project Sunshine holds various drives on campus throughout the semester to bring in donations for the children and families at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. Through a partnership with the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and FSA, Project Sunshine held a Children’s Book Drive on campus throughout the month of October that collected hundreds of books for the children at the hospital.
This semester, Project Sunshine is providing a variety of ways to donate:
- A DVD Drive in partnership with FSA from November 1 through November 30. They are looking for new or gently used DVDs to provide entertainment at the hospital.
- A Toy Drive from December 3 through December 14 to gift toys to the children as a way to spread holiday cheer.
- Visit the FSA website for donation drop-off locations.
“We are incredibly lucky to have the support of FSA, who have helped us expand our reach by spreading our mission, promoting our organization and collaborating on events,” stated Maheshwari.
Like Project Sunshine’s Facebook page and stay up-to-date on opportunities to spread smiles and sunshine to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.
Add comment