Starlight’s Inclusive Toys Uniquely Support Kids in Need

Program Impact

·Sep 21st, 2026

When a child is in the hospital, receiving a toy brings real joy, especially around the holidays. Toys aren’t just for fun; they help kids feel calmer and more comfortable.

If you’re thinking about helping kids this Christmas, consider donating to Starlight Toy Deliveries.

A recent study showed Starlight Toy Deliveries meet the unique needs of kids in the hospital and represent the families we support.

Starlight Programs: Accessible & Representative

We carefully design our programs to be adaptable, so every child, no matter their background or experience, can find happiness when they need it most.

Starlight toys are made to support children of different ages, cultures, and stages of development. Medical staff agree with this approach:

90% of hospital staff agreed that Starlight Toy Deliveries were age-appropriate and culturally relevant for children in their hospitals.
Over 82% said toys were accessible to children with cognitive, emotional, physical or other differences.
Interviews showed that people appreciate Starlight’s culturally diverse toys and books, such as those in Spanish.

Supporting Medically Underserved and Vulnerable Populations

We work hard to make sure our programs reach the kids who need them most. In 2025, 45% of Starlight’s hospital network served medically underserved and vulnerable children.

The research showed how our programs help kids in need. Hospital staff shared that giving kids something to focus on, especially those from underserved communities, makes a big difference.

When you give a Starlight Toy, you’re helping kids get through tough procedures more easily.

“Ninety-five percent of our kids are on Medicaid or uninsured. None of them bring toys with them. Some of them don’t have toys at home. So, being able to give them Starlight toys to help calm them down-make them more willing and ready to participate in procedures – really helps with cooperation, coping and reducing trauma.”
- Certified Child Life Specialist, Illinois