On Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day (May 23) last year, many took the opportunity to indulge in iced coffee and give back to a great cause through the Joy in Childhood Foundation, a philanthropic organization powered by Dunkin’. The Joy in Childhood Foundation generously granted a total of $1.7 million in proceeds from Dunkin’s iced coffee sales to 107 organizations, including Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. The $65,000 grant is being used to provide dance therapy for the Children’s Hospital’s patients.

Angela Williams, M.A., R-DMT, AMT, a dance therapist, provides dance therapy in one-on-one and small group classes, allowing for socialization, non-verbal self expression and exercise while providing a sense of normalcy and healing for the children. These therapeutic interventions, such as focusing on body awareness and expression through movement, especially impact patients who cannot verbalize their experience by providing an alternative way to communicate.

“Children battling illness are often unable to experience the simple joys of childhood, and our guests and franchisees teamed up to make a difference for kids in hospitals across the country last May as part of our annual Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day Fundraiser,” said Victor Carvalho, Dunkin’ franchisee and chairman of the Board of Directors for the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation. “Music and dance can have such a powerful impact on a child’s hospital stay, helping kids get through medical experiences with less stress and more joy and I am thrilled that the Foundation was able to help Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital provide dance therapy for its patients.”

Dance therapy has been shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety and enhance overall well-being. At the Children’s Hospital, it has provided patients with an outlet to identify and express feelings and concerns. It has also helped parents learn new ways to interact with their children, bringing joy and some normalcy that can be challenging to find in a hospital setting.

During National Child Life Month, we thank The Joy in Childhood Foundation and our donors who generously give back to ensure our patients are able to benefit from important Child Life programs, including music, dance, and art therapy. Philanthropic support to our Child Life programs brings healing and comfort in a myriad of ways to our smallest patients year-round, and we are truly grateful.

To support Child Life at Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, contact Natalie Tessoun, executive director, Children’s Health at natalie.tessoun@hmhn.org. To support Child Life at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, contact Ellen Hahan, director of Development, at ellen.hahn@hmhn.org