We are excited to share with you the journey our students took last week to George Mark Children's House, the first freestanding pediatric hospice in the United States. During our visit, we learned more about the house on a tour given by Salina Patel, RN, BSN, Director of Nursing, reflected on how beautiful a home this was for children and families - not at all like a hospital, engaged in prayer for the children and their families led by Father John, and discussed ways to continue supporting the house in the future.
Students Katie H. ('25), Lilly N. ('25) and Juliana B. ('25) were so moved they worked all last weekend with their families to bake over 70 DOZEN cookies to sell and raise over $1,200 to donate to George Mark House. We are so excited that this field trip experience for Campus Ministry created social action!
About George Mark Children's House:
George Mark Children's House is a 13,000 square-foot facility surrounded by five acres of breathtaking gardens in San Leandro, only about a mile from Assumption school. It serves as a sanctuary for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families, providing a peaceful and loving environment where the focus is on comfort, care, and quality of life. This remarkable institution, which opened in 2003, embodies the essence of empathy and support for those facing unimaginable challenges.
A Journey of Compassion and Reflection:
During our field trip, our students had the privilege of touring the house and its beautiful gardens. They also actively engaged in acts of compassion, reflection and philanthropy. Students collected diapers and wipes to donate to the house and brought those along with them. They gathered around a memorial fountain for prayer. Encircling the fountain were rocks with the names of children who had passed away at the house. Each student selected the name of a child who had passed away at George Mark Children's House and prayed for their well-being and for the families who have endured such difficult losses. Father John, during his touching prayer, reminded us of the importance of lifting up the families and children currently at the house and those who have departed.
Students were asked by Salena Patel and Father John if they could reflect and/or ask questions to learn more. Children were quite emotional and reflective about their visit - noting that it was difficult to process feelings of loss and at the same time there was relief that a beautiful place exists to help families through such a difficult time. Students were enthusiastic about continuing to give back to George Mark. In the spirit of our commitment to service, we are brainstorming ways to support the house through additional donations and a plan to sponsor a family during the holiday season.
A Pledge to Continue the Partnership and Community Support:
Our visit to George Mark Children's House was a journey of compassion, reflection, and giving back. It reinforced the values of empathy and service that are at the core of our Catholic education. As we move forward, we are excited about the opportunities to continue supporting this wonderful institution and the work it does for children and families in their time of need as well as fostering compassionate, responsible, and community-minded students.