As the holiday season unfolds, Ascension teams across the country are finding meaningful ways to bring joy, comfort and hope to patients, families and communities. From toy drives and special hospital celebrations to long-standing traditions rooted in gratitude, these moments reflect the compassion and generosity of our associates, caregivers and community partners during a time where connection matters most.
Indiana
First responders in Evansville brought holiday cheer to Ascension St. Vincent in Evansville by delivering toys collected through the annual 911 Gives Hope toy drive. Police, fire and EMS crews donated toys to brighten the lives of children in pediatric units and emergency departments throughout the year, offering comfort to families during challenging moments.
Additionally, the Ascension St. Vincent Community Outreach team spread hope this holiday season through its Hope for the Holidays program, which connects departments with patients, families and individuals in need. Through one-time holiday adoptions, associates supported officially referred patients and families, as well as individuals connected to New Hope of Indiana, by purchasing, wrapping and delivering gifts with care and compassion. The program offers meaningful connection and dignity during the holiday season while reflecting St. Vincent’s commitment to building strong relationships with the communities it serves.
Illinois
Ascension Saint Alexius Women and Children’s Hospital celebrated its 11th annual Cyber Santa event, bringing holiday joy to pediatric patients throughout the hospital. The day began with virtual visits with Mrs. Claus, allowing children to share holiday wishes while associates shopped for gifts from their Christmas lists. In the afternoon, patients were surprised by a special visit from Santa himself, along with an early delivery of presents, creating memorable moments for children and families during the holiday season.
Kansas
In just a matter of days, nurses at Ascension Via Christi raised hundreds of dollars and collected toys to support students in need through USD 259’s McKinney-Vento Homeless Education program. Inspired by a radio segment and a personal desire to give back, ICU nurse Sean Taborsky mobilized support from colleagues and the community, far exceeding his expectations by raising nearly $600 and purchasing games and toys for the donation.
Wisconsin
Each year as Christmas approaches, Greg Phelps returns as Santa to the NICU at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – St. Joseph, a place deeply tied to his family’s story. More than 25 years ago, his son Kyle was born three months premature and spent 98 days in the NICU, where a Santa visit in 1998 brought comfort during a difficult time. What began with a thank-you cake for the nurses has grown into an annual tradition, with Greg donning a Santa suit to visit NICU babies and families while Kyle distributes stuffed animals and notes of encouragement sharing their story.
