Local radio station brings Christmas joy to hospitalized children at Kadlec
By Dan Hanson
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KENNEWICK, Wash. (KAPP) — A local holiday tradition continues to bring smiles to children who won’t be home for Christmas this year.
For the past four weeks, listeners of 94.9 The Wolf have donated new, unwrapped toys as part of the radio station’s eighth annual Christmas Tree of Cash and Prizes. Each donation gave listeners a chance to draw an envelope from the tree, which was filled with cash or prizes donated by the Kennewick Police Department Foundation and local businesses.
All donated toys go directly to Kadlec Regional Medical Center’s pediatric center for children who will spend the holidays in the hospital.
The toy drive represents 17 years of Christmas magic for kids in Richland hospitals, organized by Jazz Little, who understands firsthand what it’s like to be hospitalized during the holidays.
“I was in the hospital when I was yay high. I was three years old when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s. I’ve spent many holidays and birthdays in the hospital,” Little said. “I know how much it sucks to be in there for those important events and for us to go there and provide toys for the children so they can have just a little more holiday joy.”
What started as Little’s personal mission has grown into a community-wide effort. STCU, law enforcement agencies, and volunteers now donate their time to support toy deliveries to hospitalized children.
The annual tradition serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a significant difference during the holiday season, especially for families facing medical challenges.
Little’s experience with childhood illness drives his commitment to ensuring no child feels forgotten during Christmas. His family has maintained this tradition for nearly two decades, turning a personal understanding of hospital stays into a source of joy for other young patients.
The Christmas Tree of Cash and Prizes creates a win-win situation for the community. Radio listeners receive chances to win prizes while contributing to a meaningful cause that directly impacts local families during one of the most challenging times of the year.
Organizers emphasize that the initiative demonstrates how community partnerships can create lasting positive impact. The collaboration between the radio station, local businesses, law enforcement, and volunteers shows how different sectors can work together to support families in need.
For children facing extended hospital stays during the holidays, receiving an unexpected toy can provide a bright spot during a difficult time. The gesture reminds young patients and their families that their community cares about their well-being beyond their medical treatment.
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