Halloween, and the entire fall season, is full of whimsies and characters and thrilling tales and snacks and cute costumes galore.
Those happy touchstones of October are always honored at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, an institution that finds warm and meaningful ways for patients to enjoy October and its many merry offerings.
One tradition that has gone community-wide, and even well beyond California, is CHLA’s annual Halloween greeting card drive.
The yearly happening plays a few important roles: It’s a fundraiser for the hospital’s Children’s Fund, it gives people a chance to share seasonal cheer with kids, and it brings delight to the youngsters who receive the cards alongside an assortment of Halloween goodies.
The Los Angeles Kings have made the commitment to donate a dollar for each 2026 greeting card that is printed and delivered to a patient, up to $50,000.
Your part? Peruse the trio of charming cards at the CHLA Halloween site, choose one, write “a personal message of encouragement,” and send by Oct. 30.
The hospital’s helpful suggestion when thinking about what to write? The emphasis should be placed on “the spirit of Halloween rather than ‘get well’ notes,” all to keep the holiday fun “upbeat and positive” and full of autumn-themed joy.
You can also go with the hospital’s suggested message of “Have a spook-tacular Halloween!” if you like.
The cards will be printed and delivered to kids along with “fun goodie bags” at the hospital’s Pumpkin Party.
“Our annual Pumpkin Party reminds us that imagination and joy can flourish anywhere — even within hospital walls,” says Carol Hamamoto, Director of Child Life and Expressive Arts and Therapies, and Volunteer Resources at CHLA.
“We love bringing the excitement of Halloween directly to our patients and their families with costumes, games, and special goodie bags.”
“The highlight for so many of our kids is receiving the thoughtful Halloween cards sent from around the world. Seeing the community come together in support of our families brings comfort, hope, and a sense of connection during their hospital stay.”
The designs of the ready-to-color cards are spunky and sweet: An elephant, a giraffe, and a peacock are gracing the greetings, along with Halloween-themed messages and mirth.
