The Amazon "FAT 1" distribution center in Fresno. Photo by Edward Smith

Amazon operations leaders and employees from nearby fulfillment centers came together to surprise 200 pediatric patients at Valley Children’s Healthcare Wednesday.

Each child was given a stuffed puppy toy and an Amazon Fire Kids Tablet from Santa and a team of Amazon elves.

This is the first holiday season in three years that the hospital has been able accommodate in-person patient visits due to the pandemic.

“Amazon is committed to the communities where we work and live. Our teams who work at nearby operations in Fresno, Visalia, and Turlock came together to help lift spirits and deliver smiles to the families of Valley Children’s at a time when they need it the most,” said Chad Reeder, operations manager at the Amazon Fulfillment Center in Fresno. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to surprise and delight these deserving young boys and girls, with the help of Santa of course.”

Amazon also presented Valley Children’s Healthcare with a check for $100,000 that will go towards the Claude and Betty Angel Fund, which helps patients and families meet their financial needs during their stay. 

The fund allows families to focus on supporting their children through the medical treatment process by easing a portion of the financial challenges they may face during their time at Valley Children’s. This includes transportation expenses, temporary lodging or housing assistance, utilities, and more. In the last six years, the Claude and Betty Angel Fund has provided resources to more than 800 families.

“We are incredibly grateful for Amazon’s generous gift this holiday season advancing the mission of the Laval Angel Fund that directly benefits patients and families,” said Robert Saroyan, president of Valley Children’s Healthcare Foundation. “It is an honor to welcome both corporate and local leaders from Amazon to our hospital to see firsthand the positive impact they are making through philanthropy.”