Random Acts Regional Representative Casey Flenniken saw an opportunity to make sure no child felt forgotten this Easter holiday. With the help of Random Acts, Walmart store manager Carolyn Art, and Casey’s own pocketbook, Casey purchased 50 baskets full of Easter goodies for the patients at the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital opened their doors in 1937. Since that day, they have maintained an open-door policy that “no child will be denied care because of race, religion, or their parents’ ability to pay their child’s medical bill.” They offer services and facilities to care for critically ill children as well as training opportunities to smaller hospitals in pediatric health care.
Easter Comes to ETCH
Off to deliver Easter baskets to ETCH!
Inspired by her good friend’s grandson, who spent several holidays in the hospital, Casey was determined to find a way to brighten the spirits of the children at the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital this Easter. She decided to supplement the Easter basket donations made to the hospital so that each of the children could feel included.
Adapting the Plan
Due to restrictions put in place after the COVID-19 outbreak, Casey had to adapt her previous basket plan and purchase prepackaged baskets instead. She worked with her local Walmart, and they donated an additional $100 towards the purchase of the baskets. With her car full of Easter cheer, Casey dropped the baskets off with Teresa Wessell at the hospital. She later received word from Cheryl Allman, the Director of Volunteer Service at the hospital, that the children greatly enjoyed their baskets!
If you are feeling inspired, the Random Acts Regional Representatives would love to help you find similar organizations in your community. If you would like to support the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, please consider making a donation. As always, thank you for supporting our mission to spread kindness and compassion!