Disney Children’s Hospitals: Delivering Joy and Exploration Nationwide
Disney and National Geographic teamed up to bring the joy of exploration to children in hospitals across the country. Through a partnership with Starlight Children’s Foundation, Disney donated more than 40,000 National Geographic Kids STEM activity kits, toys, and books to pediatric places of care nationwide.
A Legacy of Disney Children’s Hospitals Support
Disney’s tradition of supporting hospitalized children began with Walt Disney himself in the 1930s. Today, Disney continues that legacy through a $100 million commitment to reimagine the patient experience at children’s hospitals. This mission aligns with National Geographic’s dedication to inspiring kids to explore and connect with the world around them.
Inspiring Young Explorers Through Disney Children’s Hospitals
Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., hosted a special event celebrating the first delivery of kits. Kids enjoyed playing with toys, reading books, and taking a break from hospital routines. National Geographic curated items designed to spark exploration, including “National Geographic Kids 5-Minute Baby Animal Stories,” “Little Kids First Big Book of Why,” plush animals, crystal-growing kits, dinosaur fossil digs, and marble run sets.
Sharing Stories and Smiles at Disney Children’s Hospitals
Courteney Monroe, President of National Geographic Content, spoke at the event and shared. “I hope these kits brought a brief distraction and a spark of joy to these incredibly brave children.” Kids also watched clips from National Geographic’s “Critter Fixers: Country Vets” on a Disney-donated mobile movie theater before meeting one of the show’s stars, Dr. Vernard Hodges.
Dr. Hodges shared his journey to becoming a veterinarian and inspired kids to dream big in STEM fields. He also demonstrated how veterinarians care for animals using real tools, joined by therapy dogs that delighted patients and families alike.
Supporting Disney Children’s Hospitals with Starlight Foundation
Disney has partnered with Starlight Children’s Foundation for over 20 years to bring its stories and characters to pediatric care settings. Programs include Disney-themed hospital gowns, care packages, toy deliveries, and access to Disney content. Christine Soldner, Senior Director at Starlight, shared, “We believe every child should continue to explore the wonder of childhood, no matter what they’re going through.”
Disney’s collaboration with National Geographic and Starlight exemplifies its dedication to delivering joy and comfort to children facing illness. This month, Disney will continue the magic by donating Halloween-themed toys, books, costumes, and wheelchair wraps to children’s hospitals nationwide.
To learn more, visit joy.disney.com.
