Foundation Friday seeks to spotlight how NASCAR drivers are giving back through their personal foundations. Each week, a different driver and their foundation will be highlighted including who they are helping, notable accomplishments, and how you can get involved in their efforts.
The Almirola Family Fund
When Abby Almirola was just three weeks old, she was transported to Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina. After a diagnosis of RSV, Janice and Aric Almirola were faced with a week-long stay.
Fortunately, all ended well for little Abby, and today, she is a thriving 10-year-old.
However, their stay in the hospital opened their eyes to just how uncomfortable the time away from home can be for families – no matter how brief. This led the Almirolas to want to lend a hand and lessen the burden for families in similar situations.
Comfort Kits
Quickly, an idea came to mind. The Almirolas set out to create and provide Comfort Kits to the families on the ninth floor of Levine Children’s Hospital.
Included in these kits are activity and coloring books and crayons, playing cards, slippers, lip balm, eye masks, and more. All are provided with the idea of creating a more comfortable environment for children facing uncertain times.
Aric’s favorite part of the kit is a red, foam ball – for tossing, or goofing off!
The Almirolas also included, “an information packet with a schedule of weekly activities, a map of the hospital, and restaurants located around the area.”
Every child admitted to the ninth floor of Levine Children’s Hospital receives a comfort bag. LCH has noted this is approximately 2,500 children a year.
Going a Step Further
The Almirolas are not just providing the funds for these bags, they are personally handing out the bags as hospital volunteers.
Janice shared, “It puts things in perspective for us to come face-to-face with the parents and children that are dealing with illnesses and aren’t in the comfort of their home. We hope this small gesture provides a positive impact on each family.”
Future Goals and How You Can Help
Ultimately, the Almirolas would love to provide Comfort Kits to the nearly 10,000 children admitted to LCH every year.
Those interested in partnering with the Almirolas can do so via the hospital donation link. Finally, more information on The Almirola Family Fund and Comfort Kits can be found on the Atrium Health Foundation’s website.
