St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital staff received a check for $27,500 Jan. 21 from the Walmart Foundation to support enrichment programming at the Idaho’s only children’s hospital school. Funding will support the Idaho Shakespeare Festival Helena Project, Boise School of Rock, the Art Making Program and the Cystic Fibrosis School Snack Program.
“Walmart’s support will allow us to bring the arts to hundreds of students at our Hospital School, and provide snacks and supplies for students with Cystic Fibrosis through our partnerships with community schools,” said Carla Hart, Hospital School teacher. “These programs make a real difference in keeping our students on grade level, not to mention having some much needed fun.”
The St. Luke’s Hospital School provides comprehensive education for children with chronic or serious medical conditions who miss school due to their diagnosis or treatment.
“On behalf of the more than 7,000 associates in Idaho, I’d like to express our gratitude for the work St. Luke’s team does to keep our young students engaged,” said Madeleine Havener, Walmart vice president and regional general manager. “We are proud to support these programs and help build our students’ confidence and enthusiasm for learning. St. Luke’s truly helps our neighbors live better.”
Since 1995, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have contributed over $1.1 million to St. Luke’s Health System through its Miracle Balloon campaigns and foundation grants. Funds have supported a variety of activities, including the YEAH! childhood obesity program and enrichment activities offered through the Hospital School.
The St. Luke’s Hospital School was opened in 2004 to help minimize the social, emotional and mental effect severe and chronic illnesses have on their school-aged patients. The school serves approximately 1,000 students per year.
Roya Camp works in the St. Luke’s Communications department.