For the children who spend Christmas at the Inner Sunset nonprofit known as Family House, the holiday brings gifts, family time and a brief respite from the mental and physical exhaustion that comes with being treated for cancer and other serious illnesses. Next spring, Family House, which was founded in 1981, will relocate across town from 50 Irving St. to the new UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital at Mission Bay.
75 percent of the patients at Family House are from low-income families who live at least 50 miles away and have traveled to San Francisco for medical treatment. On Christmas, the facility will host a special event for 34 families, as well as gift giving for about 60 families connected with the program. Using an Amazon wish list, Family House will ship gifts directly to these families’ homes.
"Because so many of our families are 100 percent focused on their child’s health, Christmas becomes a distant second to what they need most right now," said staff member Joey Kotifca. "Without Family House, many simply wouldn’t have a Christmas ... so, we’re able to help them celebrate, no matter where they are."
For the holiday, the children will receive new toys, and parents will be given gift cards. Volunteers will also prepare a special meal while families are treated to performances by the UCSF Vocal Choral group and a popular clown. Families who stay at the home don't pay for anything—Family House relies on contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations to aid families and put on special events.
"Thanks to our generous community, we can offer holiday parties, visits with Santa, toys for kids and gift cards for parents," said Kotifca. "We can help fulfill their wish lists during a time families can’t consider celebrating anything, because they are so focused on their child getting better."
Family House is still seeking support and contributions to help make this year's Christmas event happen. If you'd like to make a tax-deductible donation, visit familyhouseinc.org, or purchase a special Secret Santa gift from Family House's Amazon wish list. To volunteer, email Karen Banks at kbanks [AT] familyhouseinc [DOT] org.
