Our organization continues to explore creative ways to meet our primary mission in memory of Leon—providing help for children facing illness at Christmas time
Holiday Giving
Leon’s Gift provides financial support for families of children whom are encountering illnesses during the holiday season. Through the assistance of community organizations, Leon’s Gift identifies families in need who fit with our mission. Our charitable gifts have helped families primarily in Central and Western New York areas, but our organization does not limit our giving to only those regions.
Influenza Awareness and Prevention
Along with other nonprofit organizations such as Families Fighting Flu, Leon’s Gift expands public awareness of the dangers of influenza as well as the proven benefits of preventative measures such as vaccination and proper hygiene practices.
During the holidays, children are at elevated risk for contracting and dying from influenza compared to other times of the year. Every year there are previously healthy children like Leon, with no prior medical problems, who die from the flu. Medical literature published and accumulated over the last 100 years by scientific experts speak to the deadly potential for influenza, even for healthy individuals. Despite this, misconceptions remain within the general population surrounding influenza risk and prevention.
Leon’s Gift has partnered with community organizations, such as Orleans Community Health and the YMCA, to create and fund holiday events for children that offer activities as well as free access to hand hygiene products and flu vaccinations flu vaccinations. Through the #FluShotsforLeon campaign on Facebook , Leon’s family and friends have raised local and national awareness regarding the dangers of influenza and benefits of getting flu shots prior to the start of the holiday season
