All aboard! 'Choo Choo Chow Chow' event raises funds for children's hospitals

From newsboys' collection cups in Pennsylvania, to offices in eight states, the "Choo Choo Chow Chow" keeps chugging along, collecting donations for local children's hospitals. The "Choo Choo Chow Chow" is actually a wooden toy train, and the name of annual charity event to raise funds for children's hospitals through the Howard Hanna Children’s Free Care Fund Foundation.

Each Howard Hanna office decides how to raise funds, like holding a potluck or other eating event, and the money raised stays local. Here in Northeast Ohio, donations go to UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, and Akron and Toledo's children's hospitals.

The donations truly make a difference in an ill child's life. Imagine the joy of a hospitalized child as they eat pizza and laugh with family and friends at a pizza party. Picture a 5-year-old under palliative care smiling, because this birthday party is for her. Listen to the squeals coming from a 3-year-old, as he pets a therapy dog.

These situations are a true snapshot of what donating to the Children's Free Care Fund accomplishes. The Howard Hanna Children's Free Care Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The difference you make can't be measured in dollars, but in the hearts you have touched.

Howard Hanna's Crocker Road office has different ways to donate and join in the fun. Purchase raffle tickets or make a donation of any amount. Raffle tickets are $100; only 200 tickets will be sold. Four cash prize winners will be drawn on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m., at Houlihan's, 25651 Detroit Road. Contact Jaime Bealer, 440-793-0100, or Sybil Mundy, 440-522-2504, of Howard Hanna Westlake to purchase raffle tickets, make a donation or for more information.

This year marks the 36th annual Coats for Kids Cleveland collection campaign. The campaign started in early November, and ends in late December. New or like-new warm coats of all sizes are needed, from infant to adult. Hats, mittens, gloves and scarves are also welcome. Donations may be dropped off at Howard Hanna Westlake, 2055 Crocker Road, Suite 101 or at Crocker Park.