How Basket of Hope Began
Through the generosity of its donors, Basket of Hope
provides gifts to children diagnosed with cancer or other serious
illness. The baskets are delivered by volunteers who spend time meeting
with the family. Basket of Hope customizes each basket with age
appropriate toys, games, crafts, etc. for the child and siblings. Basket
of Hope began in 1995 after 7-year-old Christina Brunette completed her
cancer treatment at SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center in
St. Louis, Missouri. Her family, thankful for her treatment and
wanting to give back, developed the Basket of Hope program working
closely with Cardinal Glennon staff members.
Basket of Hope has delivered thousands of baskets across the nation. There are currently 20 participating hospitals.
Hope
totes, donated by Vera Bradley, are also delivered and offered as an
option for parents. They contain a Bible, journal, "Uncommon", by Tony
Dungy and donated by Tony Dungy Family Foundation, uplifting music and
inspirational books.