Wolfson patients enjoy ‘Christmas in July’

Christmas came early for children who are patients at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, as Santa Claus made a mid-summer stop to deliver some of the more than 1,300 toys donated during the annual “Christmas in July” toy drive.

In addition to toys, donors gave more than $13,000 in financial gifts that will be used to purchase toys for Wolfson Children’s patients.

“We are so grateful for the continued generosity and stewardship of our Northeast Florida community, from individuals who donated online or dropped off toys, to organizations and businesses like Subaru of Jacksonville that sponsored the drive,” hospital President Allegra C. Jaros said. “The toy and monetary donations from Christmas in July allow our Family Support Services team to bring joy to all our patients and to support them throughout their healing journey.”

Subaru of Jacksonville collected toys at their showroom on St. Johns Bluff Road throughout the month and delivered those with Santa on July 31. In addition to thousands of dollars’ worth of toys from the community, staff and ownership, the dealership contributed $25,000 to support the Child Life department.

“The toys we collect in our showroom are much more than just items—they are symbols of smiles and comfort for the wonderful patients at Wolfson Children’s Hospital,” said Phil Porter, Jr. of Subaru of Jacksonville. “We cherish the opportunity to play a small role in the joy these gifts bring to the children, no matter the season.”