Team Schein members present toys, clothing, games and other gifts to participating children and their families at Henry Schein locations throughout the US
More than 1,000 children and their families participated in Henry Schein’s 17th annual “Holiday Cheer for Children” programme, a flagship initiative of Henry Schein Cares. Participating children and their families are presented with toys, clothing, games and other gifts purchased by Team Schein Members, who spend their own time and money to sponsor individual children. In addition, families in need are presented with gift certificates to major supermarket chains through the programme. (Photo: PRNewsFoto/Henry Schein, Inc.)
Henry Schein, Inc. is spreading joy this holiday season to more than 1,000 children and their families through its 17th annual “Holiday Cheer for Children” programme, a flagship initiative of Henry Schein Cares, the company’s global social responsibility programme.
Participating children and their families are presented with toys, clothing, games and other gifts purchased by Team Schein Members, who spend their own time and money to sponsor individual children. In addition, families in need are presented with gift certificates to major supermarket chains through the programme. To help identify children and families who would benefit from participating in the Holiday Cheer for Children programme, Henry Schein partners with local social service organisations at a number of company locations.
“There is no better reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season than seeing a child smile when they open their presents, and we are proud to partner with Henry Schein on this incredible programme,” said Theresa Sparrow-Gill, Residential Director of Bethany House, an organisation that provides shelter to homeless women and children. “Holiday Cheer for Children does so much for children and their families during a time of year that can be difficult for those facing financial hardships, and we are very thankful to Team Schein for their kindness.”
Children and their families receive their gifts at Henry Schein locations throughout the US. The company’s largest event took place December 3 at Henry Schein’s global headquarters in Melville, New York, where Team Schein Members presented their gifts to 700 Long Island children at a superheroes-themed celebration. The event included a special dinner, a chocolate fountain, a cotton candy machine, music, games and festivities, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Children and families were identified for participation in the Melville event by the following local social service agencies: Bethany House, Madonna Heights, Espoir Youth Programme, Nassau County Department of Social Services, Family Service League, YES Community Counseling Centre, MPowering Kids, Family & Children’s Association’s Family Ties programme, Hispanic Counseling Centre, The Raymar Children’s Fund, North Shore-LIJ Health System and The Pederson-Krag Centre.
“It is wonderful to see Team Schein embracing the spirit of the season and giving so selflessly to ensure that these children and their families have a joyful holiday experience,” said Gerry Benjamin, Henry Schein’s Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer. “Team Schein Members bring an enthusiasm to Holiday Cheer for Children that is matched only by their generosity and this programme’s tremendous success embodies the company’s commitment to giving back to local communities.”
Holiday Cheer for Children is supported by the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organisation that works to foster, support and promote dental, medical and animal health by helping to increase access to care for communities around the world.