Sun staff
Sam’s Club is making Christmas brighter for children who are spending the holidays in the hospital.
Employees at Sam’s Club in Eastgate presented more than 300 toys to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital to give to children who are in the hospital over the holidays.
Felix Leshey, club manager of the Sam’s in Eastgate, said toys were collected from 15 stores that make up Market 49, which is led by Raina Brummett.
“Thinking of the kids spending holidays at the hospital, their parents have a lot on their mind, the last thing on their mind is gifts,” Leshey said.
Boxes were placed in the stores throughout the market to collect toys that were on the wish list. The stores also collected funds to purchase gifts and gift cards.
Renee Guy, a human resources employee at Sam’s in Eastgate, said it was a privilege to be a part of the process.
“It’s all about the children at Christmas,” Guy said. “To be able to help children who are sick, it boosts our spirits.”
Clermont County Chamber of Commerce helped to promote the toy collection for Sam’s.
John Melvin, director of the Clermont County Chamber of Commerce Small Business Development Center, said it is nice to be able to help Children’s Hospital.
Natalie Gerano, corporate donor relations for Children’s Hospital, said the fact that Sam’s stepped up to collect the toys meant a lot.
“It means a lot to have partners in the community,” Gerano said. “All the gifts will be distributed to all the kids in the hospital during the holiday season.”