A local charity's act of kindness is paying off in a big way.

CHS Drives just donated $20,000 to the Child Life Team at St. Joseph's Children Hospital. The funds were raised at the non-profit's annual golf tournament.

  • CHS Drives raised $20K for St. Joseph's Children Hospital
  • Child Life Team is designed to help children relax and acclimate during long hospital stays

The Child Life Team's mission is to help make hospital stays a little easier for patients like 3-year-old Jacoby Johnson, who has been at the hospital for several days while doctors run tests.

"He doesn't really like needles and everything," said Jacoby's father, "but he still is a big boy and was able to take it."

Child Life specialist Karlyn Crawford said her team focuses on providing interaction and education during hospital stays.

"Our role is really just helping them cope with being here," started Crawford. "So that might mean a lot of medical play and teaching for our patients, a lot of developmental support and play.

"All of the floors have different playrooms," she continued, "we have tons of toys that are donated that they can play in the playroom or play in their room with just to really help them still be a kid while they're here."

Child Life donations help fund the different toys, games and activities for the patients. It also helps with annual parties and parades.

According to staffers like Crawford, the $20,000 recently raised will go a long way.

"It just helps their spirits be lifted and helps them be more happy and cheerful while they're here," she said. "We've really seen a difference that it helps them get better faster."

For more information on the Child Life Team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, visit their website.