Disney brightens the lives of children in need through global outreach programs, community initiatives and the Disney VoluntEARS that support worthy charities around the world.
In December 2006, The Walt Disney Company’s President and CEO Robert A. Iger announced a $2.5 million donation to support of Starlight's PC Pal program. The gift kicks off Disney’s support of the PC Pal program which will provide 200 laptop computers to pediatric patients ages 5 to 18. Each PC Pal comes pre-installed with Starlight’s medical education and disease management programs and Disney programs and games including “Toontown Online”, “Cinderella’s Dollhouse”, “Learning with Nemo”, “Little Mermaid Pinball” and others. As part of The Walt Disney Company's presenting sponsorship of the PC Pal program, $1.5 million will be donated, and $1 million from The Walt Disney Company Foundation will underwrite the placement of PC Pal units in children’s hospitals.
In 2004, in connection with the celebration of Mickey Mouse’s 75th birthday, Disney named Starlight as one of a select group of charities to benefit from a Sotheby’s auction of 75 unique Mickey Mouse statues. Additionally, over the years the Walt Disney Company has partnered with Starlight to deliver Parties-in-a-Box, festive boxes containing ready-made parties for pediatric patients, with items including videos, books, interactive games, craft projects, and board games. More than 500 hospitals, and the thousands of children they serve, have enjoyed these care packages, delivered during Disney's Season of Compassion. Parties-in-a-Box are part of Starlight's Hospital Happenings program.
“Starlight helps children who are going through difficult times, and we are so pleased to work with them to bring Disney’s unique magic to hospitals to help brighten the lives of children when they need it most.”
-Jody Dreyer, Senior Vice President, Disney Worldwide Outreach
The Walt Disney Company Foundation was established in 1951 by Walt and Roy O. Disney to serve philanthropic needs and interests and does so today along with Disney Worldwide Outreach, part of The Walt Disney Company. The Walt Disney Company's outreach initiatives are dedicated to making the wishes of families and children a reality through public service initiatives, community outreach and volunteerism in the areas of compassion, learning, the arts and the environment.