Abbey Carnivale from NBC Connecticut talks with John Sponauer, vice president of marketing communications and philanthropic giving, about the dramatic increase in requests for holiday assistance this year (quadrupled over 2024), the power and beauty of philanthropy, and how people can help.
Holiday Hope
This holiday season, we’re coming together to spread hope through our Spirit of Giving initiatives. From food and toy drives to donation campaigns that support families in need, every act of generosity helps make the holidays a little brighter. Join us in giving back to our community this season.
Give Hope. Share Joy.
The Magic of Giving Starts with You
Our #1 Priority
Give the Gift of Stability
Basic needs requests are more than double normal level right now.
Help patients overcome real-life barriers to better health. Your contribution provides essentials—like bedding, transportation to appointments, food, clothing, or medications—when no other resources exist. Every gift supports families in urgent need so they can focus on healing.
Our #2 Priority
Share Joy With Patients in our Care
We have closed our holiday toy drive, and are hard at work distributing your generosity! We had more than 400 requests for assistance to make this holiday season special for the families we serve.
Requests quadrupled since last year and with your help, we fulfilled specific, submitted holiday wishes with donated new toys or gift cards. Your support brought holiday magic to families facing hardship and ensures every child experiences the warmth and wonder of the season.
Our #3 Priority
Provide Comfort and Dignity
Shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and other essentials can make a world of difference. By collecting personal care items, you help patients meet everyday needs that support confidence, health, and well-being.
Help Nourish Local Families
Gather non-perishable items to support patients experiencing food insecurity. Your food drive ensures families have access to healthy meals during the holidays—a time when many face extra challenges.
Send Words of Hope and Cheer
A simple handwritten message can brighten someone’s season. Create holiday cards filled with encouragement and kindness for patients and families who may be struggling. Your words can lift spirits when they’re needed most.
Our #1 Priority
Give the Gift of Stability
Basic needs requests are more than double normal level right now.
Help patients overcome real-life barriers to better health. Your contribution provides essentials—like bedding, transportation to appointments, food, clothing, or medications—when no other resources exist. Every gift supports families in urgent need so they can focus on healing.
Our #2 Priority
Share Joy With Patients in our Care
We have closed our holiday toy drive, and are hard at work distributing your generosity! We had more than 400 requests for assistance to make this holiday season special for the families we serve.
Requests quadrupled since last year and with your help, we fulfilled specific, submitted holiday wishes with donated new toys or gift cards. Your support brought holiday magic to families facing hardship and ensures every child experiences the warmth and wonder of the season.
Our #3 Priority
Provide Comfort and Dignity
Shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and other essentials can make a world of difference. By collecting personal care items, you help patients meet everyday needs that support confidence, health, and well-being.
Help Nourish Local Families
Gather non-perishable items to support patients experiencing food insecurity. Your food drive ensures families have access to healthy meals during the holidays—a time when many face extra challenges.
Send Words of Hope and Cheer
A simple handwritten message can brighten someone’s season. Create holiday cards filled with encouragement and kindness for patients and families who may be struggling. Your words can lift spirits when they’re needed most.
Make a difference today