You Won't Believe What Happened at the Sensory-Friendly Santa Event – This Shocking Support Will Change Lives!

Building Community Through Inclusivity

On December 12, 2025, in Danville, Kentucky, the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation took a significant step towards inclusivity by presenting a $3,900 grant to the Ephraim McDowell Kids Can Do Pediatric Therapy Center. This funding supports the annual Sensory-Friendly Santa program, which aims to provide children with sensory needs a welcoming environment to enjoy a personalized visit with Santa Claus. The generosity of the Foundation's donors enabled 75 families to participate in this heartwarming holiday event.

The Sensory-Friendly Santa program has been a beacon of hope for families for the past eight years. It offers a low-stimulus environment that caters to children who may struggle with sensitivities to noise and lights, difficulties with transitions, or overwhelming crowds—barriers that often make traditional holiday festivities inaccessible. By creating a calm and festive atmosphere, the program allows these children to experience the magic of the season in a way that feels safe and comfortable.

Thanks to donor support, the Kids Can Do facility transforms into a serene holiday landscape filled with crafts, sensory tools, and warm treats for attending families. During the event, therapists specializing in occupational, physical, and speech therapy are on hand to provide individualized strategies and assistance, ensuring that every family has a peaceful and memorable experience.

“This program is a beautiful reminder of the impact donor support has on families right here in our community,” said Jon Scalf, a board member of the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation. “Sensory-Friendly Santa creates a moment of joy that many of these children would not otherwise be able to experience. Donor generosity ensures that every child—regardless of their sensory needs—can share in the magic of the season.”

Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that for some children, this event marks their first successful interaction with Santa. For these families, the Sensory-Friendly Santa event has become a cherished annual tradition, eagerly anticipated months in advance. The opportunity to capture keepsake photos and share a one-on-one experience with Santa creates memories that families will treasure for a lifetime, particularly for those who may not have the financial means to access similar programs elsewhere.

“At Ephraim McDowell Health, we are committed to providing compassionate, inclusive care, and programs like Sensory-Friendly Santa reflect that mission beyond the walls of the hospital,” stated Nick Spoonmore, Administrator at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center. “We are grateful for the Foundation and its donors who make it possible for Kids Can Do to create such a special environment for children and their families. This is community support at its best.”

Looking ahead, Kids Can Do plans to expand next year’s event by offering the Sensory-Friendly Santa on both Friday and Saturday, aiming to better accommodate school-aged children and meet the growing demand within the community. The Foundation has already received a request for continued support, underscoring its commitment to funding programs that enrich the lives of children and families in Danville.

The Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to every donor who made this year's event possible. Because of their generosity, 75 families have had the opportunity to experience the joy, comfort, and magic of a truly inclusive holiday tradition. As the holiday season unfolds, stories like these remind us of the power of community support in creating meaningful experiences for those who need them most.