Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital Awarded Play Grant from The Toy Foundation

A $15,000 grant from The Toy Foundation’s Children’s Hospital Play Grants program will create play opportunities for behavioral and mental health patients at the Massry Family Children’s Emergency Center at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center. Funding supports the purchase of appropriate items that relieve the stress and anxiety of hospitalization.

Play is a powerful tool that can significantly improve the experiences and outcomes of our youngest patients. Play opportunities also allow staff members, like child life specialists, to build a rapport with patients, which benefits their care and treatment.

“These items will help us meet the developmental needs of these patients, help make for a more play-friendly environment, and help them pass the time in a positive way,” said Lindsay Burnop, a child life specialist. “We are incredibly thankful for this grant, and for The Toy Foundation’s commitment to bringing play to hospitalized children.”

The Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital is one of 20 children’s hospitals and health systems selected to receive this grant. The Toy Foundation distributed $380,000 to support 240,000 children.

“Play has a profound impact on a child’s healing journey, benefiting their physical, emotional, and educational wellbeing,” said Pamela Mastrota, executive director at the Toy Foundation. “We are pleased to support the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital in providing the power of play to help their patients heal and thrive.”