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Hope Foundation launches wish-granting campaign for children
By Sarah Lehr
YOUNGSTOWN
Rey Esparra, board member of the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, has observed the effect that a “ray of hope” can have on a terminally ill child.
“Mental health and physical health go together,” Esparra said. “When you bring laughter and happiness, the healing process takes over. Cancer is so evil, but the thing about kids is that they don’t know. They know, but they don’t know.”
The HFMV announced the launch of the DreamCatchers for Kids on Tuesday at Cassese’s MVR Restaurant.
The campaign, which will grant the wishes of terminally ill children in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties, has been aided by $5,000 from an anonymous donor.
The HFMV, a nonprofit staffed entirely by volunteers, expects to grant its first wish through DreamCatchers for Kids after New Year’s Day.
The organization is accepting donations and wish applications. To learn more, visit www.HopeMV.org.
“It’s exciting to know that the wishes will be granted locally for kids right here in this area,” said Deanna Fusillo, HFMV board member.
Anthony Spano, HFMV executive director, said he’s been gratified by the community’s enthusiasm for the Dreamcatchers campaign and for the Hope Foundation, generally.
Founded in 2007, the foundation provides grants of up to $5,000 each to individuals and charities dedicated to improving the lives of chronically or terminally ill children and their families.
“I grew up in the area in a family of 10 kids, and our parents instilled in us the idea of giving back to the community,” Esparra said. “There’s a lot of negativity about the Valley, but the fact is, I’ve seen how people here are always willing to step up to the plate to help others.”