Christmas in July brings holiday cheer to Wolfson Children's Hospital as community donates hundreds of toys and more than $20,000

The Northeast Florida community once again embraced the spirit of giving this summer, donating hundreds of new toys and more than $20,000 during Wolfson Children's Hospital's 15th annual Christmas in July campaign, presented by Subaru of Jacksonville. The gifts will help Child Life and Music Therapy teams bring comfort, play and joy to children receiving care at the hospital throughout the year.

As part of the monthlong toy and donation drive, presented by Subaru of Jacksonville, Santa made a special stop at the hospital on July 24 to spread holiday cheer and deliver donated toys to patients.

Subaru of Jacksonville collected toys at its showroom throughout the month before joining Santa for the festive hospital delivery. In addition to the toys donated by customers, employees and community members, the dealership contributed $25,000 to support Family Support Services at Wolfson Children's Hospital.

At Wolfson Children's Hospital, certified child life specialists and music therapists use toys and musical instruments every day to help children understand medical procedures, reduce fear and anxiety, and create moments of play and normalcy during treatment. These tools also support children's emotional well-being and developmental milestones while in the hospital. Donations from Christmas in July help replenish these essential resources so that care teams have the tools they need to support patients year-round.

“Year after year, our community shows us that the spirit of giving extends far beyond the holiday season,” said Allegra C. Jaros, MBA, president of Wolfson Children's Hospital. “Every toy donated and every dollar contributed during Christmas in July helps create moments of comfort, joy and hope for children and families during some of their most difficult days. We are incredibly grateful to Subaru of Jacksonville and our entire community, whose generosity makes it possible for our patients to experience the healing power of play throughout the year.”

Those who wish to donate toys year-round can do so by visiting the Wolfson Children's Hospital Amazon Wish List. Financial contributions that support Child Life and Music Therapy throughout the year can be made at WolfsonChildrens.com/Give.