When a child has a serious illness, everyone in the family is affected. We designed the Year of Sunshine program to give families monthly support through gifts and intentional relationships. Year of Sunshine families receive:

  • A one-on-one relationship with a Spreading Sunshine Care Coordinator.
  • Monthly mailings to the family’s home or the hospital.
  • Emotional and spiritual support through prayer and presence.

One Year of Sunshine mom said, “[Spreading Sunshine] is willing to go above and beyond. Sometimes it’s just a hug. I’ve been very thankful for the friendships that I’ve made. We are also part of the Year of Sunshine right now, and my kids look so forward to what kind of surprise they’re going to get each month. It’s been a blessing for our entire family.”

We hope to provide support and community for as many families as possible, and your gift makes that possible.

care for hurting children

Ethan’s Story

Ethan and his family are one of our 2020 Year of Sunshine families. Ethan is twelve years old and has already faced two open-heart surgeries. They have faced many long days in the hospital – and will face more in the future. Thanks to the support of donors, Spreading Sunshine was able to provide monthly encouragement to this family in 2020.

Serving Families through Relationships

The Year of Sunshine is so much more than just packages and gifts. It’s about relationships, community, and hope. Having a child with special medical needs is a trial no parent should face alone. The Year of Sunshine is a way to intentionally invest in the lives of families. Now more than ever our families are feeling isolated and alone. But a Year of Sunshine can change that.

My kids look so forward to what kind of surprise they’re going to get each month. It’s been a blessing for our entire family.

— Year of Sunshine Mom

A Year of Sunshine: How You Can Help

Sponsor a Family | $35/month (or $420 for the year)

For only $35 a month (or $420 a year) you can provide monthly care and encouragement to a family whose child has a critical or chronic illness. This will include:

  • A one-on-one relationship between the family and a Spreading Sunshine Care Coordinator.
  • Monthly mailings to the family’s home or to the hospital.
  • Emotional and spiritual support through prayer and presence.

When you sponsor a family, you will receive a short bio on the family, specific ways you can pray for them, and the opportunity to write notes of encouragement that we will provide to the family throughout the year. You will also receive email updates on how your gift is directly impacting families.

sunshine boxes support families

Sponsor a Welcome Box for a Family | $80

When a family begins their Year of Sunshine, they will receive a welcome box with gifts for every member of the family. These gifts will include items such as sunshine apparel, sunshine tumblers, and fun stickers. Your gift will help send a warm welcome to a family.

give to children with illnesses