Making A Difference: PWHS National Art Honor Society’s annual art supply drive for CHOP

For several of the members of Plymouth Whitemarsh High School’s National Art Honor Society chapter, the club’s annual drive to collect art supplies for patients at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is more than just a service project. It’s a cause that’s personal.

PWHS sophomore Astin Nguyen’s sibling was in CHOP for a couple of months when they were younger, and art was something that kept them occupied. “Most times I would visit, they would have new artwork posted on the walls or some to show me,” said Astin. “Art was there at the hardest time of their life, so giving some art supplies feels so rewarding to me.”

Each year, the PWHS National Art Honor Society collects craft kits, Play-Doh, coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, sketching and watercolor supplies, lap desks, and more.

During last year’s art supply drive, PWHS senior Gabrielle Tiedeken was able to give back the plastic lap desk she received during her CHOP stay for a bone marrow transplant in 2018. “It was a beyond difficult time for me and my family, but having art supplies and art therapy was something I looked forward to during my inpatient stay and my recovery,” said Gabrielle. “Nothing makes me feel better than being able to give back to my community and CHOP for helping me when I needed it.”

PWHS senior Mia Van Coillie also saw firsthand how impactful the art supplies can be to the young patients. Her sister with special needs received gifts of art supplies during her long hospital stays at CHOP. “Nobody chooses to be sick and stuck in the hospital. For people like my sister, the little things like art supplies can brighten their day and help them feel more at home.”

CHOP’s Creative Arts Therapy Department supports children as they cope with illness, injury, treatment, and hospitalization. Their specialized team works alongside a child’s care team to reduce stress during hospital or outpatient visits while supporting overall healthcare goals.

To contribute to the drive, click here to visit the CHOP Child Life team’s Amazon Wish List.