LANSING, Mich. – Halloween is months away, but Spirit of Children is delivering a treat to children in need: a major donation to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow.
Spirit of Children, the philanthropic arm of Spirit Halloween stores, presented a $99,100 check to the children’s hospital today. The funding will support programs that help ease the stress and anxiety of hospitalization for children and their families.
The community played a major role. Shoppers who presented a digital coupon or promo code last fall at any Spirit Halloween store triggered a 10% donation to the hospital.
“We are incredibly grateful to the community and to Spirit Halloween for this generous support,” said Steve Martin, M.D., a Pediatric Intensivist at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at UM Health-Sparrow.
Spirit Halloween’s Spirit of Children program is dedicated to making hospitals less scary for kids and their families by donating cash, costumes and activities to help children celebrate Halloween. The program supports more than 150 pediatric hospitals across North America through customer donations and sales proceeds.
Since 2007, the program has donated more than $1 million to support C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at UM Health-Sparrow, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the well-being of local children.
“Our goal has always been to bring the magic and fun of Halloween to children year-round, and that’s only possible because of the generosity of our customers,” said Kristina Mattone, zone manager for Spirit Halloween. “We are proud to continue our partnership and to see the direct impact these funds have on the kids and families who need it most.”
The money will specifically support UM Health-Sparrow Lansing Child Life Services, which uses play, education and emotional support to help children cope with medical experiences. Funding may be used for therapeutic toys, educational materials, family resources and specialized programming.
For more information on UM Health-Sparrow pediatric services, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org/departments-conditions/all-departments/pediatric-services
