My name is Kennedy Steiner, and in 2012 I founded Kennedy Kares, an organization created to donate toys to Toys for Tots. Over the years, we've proudly contributed more than 65,000 toys, thanks to the support of my family and the community. In 2019, I expanded my mission by launching Kennedy Kares at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). This initiative was created to provide adult patients with cognitive differences a smoother transition from the pediatric to adult inpatient units at the hospital. More recently, we added five more activity carts to help with patients experiencing dementia and delirium.

After spending much of my life at MGH, I noticed how few supportive resources were available for those patients transitioning from pediatric to adult care, including my brother. In response, I created an activity cart stocked with coloring supplies, movies, stress toys, books, games, and small decorations to make adult units feel more welcoming and supportive.

Over the past six months, the program has expanded as staff across MGH reached out for additional support. We’ve since added five more carts designed specifically for patients experiencing delirium and dementia, filled with calming items to help reduce stress and improve patient outcomes.

It has been incredible getting to watch the idea I had seven years ago grow into something so significant, and I could not have done it without the help of the community we have created! This effort will continue to grow, providing essential comfort and support to those who need it most.