Basket of Hope's mission is to give hope to children diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses through the delivery of a Basket of Hope filled with toys, games, craft items, books, stuffed animals, and more. Hope Totes are optional for the parents and contain gifts to nourish them physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Every week many children are diagnosed with cancer and other serious illnesses. At the time of diagnosis, the children and their families feel overwhelmed with the news. It is important for them to know that the community cares for them and that they are not alone. Familiar items provided in an unfamiliar place bring some sense of control, normalcy, and enjoyment to the individual child, as well as siblings and other family members.
New Mexico Branch of Basket of Hope works closely with the University of New Mexico Hospital to deliver baskets to the Children's Specialty Unit, the Carrie Tingley Inpatient Unit and the Infusion Unit where children receive their treatment as an outpatient. We also provide several additional deliveries throughout the year that include all the pediatric units: 144 gift bags for Easter, 'Christmas in July' and Christmas.
Basket of Hope volunteers who deliver the baskets are trained UNM Hospital volunteers. Several local sewing groups donate handmade hats, quilts and afghans which are included in every basket.
Families often send special notes expressing their thanks and sharing how much the gifts have meant to them:
“I just wanted to thank you for the 'Christmas in July' basket given to my daughter while she was at UNM Hospital receiving treatment for her cancer. It was so thoughtful of you to put together the basket to make her day brighter, I can't tell you how much she and I appreciated it. Thank you again!”
“I received an Easter basket from Basket of Hope when I took my 2 year old daughter to urgent care at UNM a few weeks ago. In the middle of a stressful, difficult weekend, your basket was a happy surprise, stuffed chock-full of thoughtful toys. My daughter loved it. Thank you!”
NM Branch of Basket of Hope is all volunteer and supported by donations from our community. Although we are affiliated with the national Basket of Hope organization, each branch must do its own fundraising. All funds raised stay in NM.
On behalf of the children and families we serve, thank you for your support.
