As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month begins this September, we are proud to continue our partnership with the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO) to amplify their efforts to support children fighting cancer. In collaboration with the ACCO, we are dedicated to providing playhouses and medical play kits to young cancer warriors undergoing treatments, and we need your support to make this endeavor more impactful.
Make It Cute. Make It Meaningful. Make A Difference.
A Heartfelt Mission
At Make It Cute, our founding story is deeply personal. As a physician’s assistant with over a decade of experience in surgical oncology, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Maureen North witnessed first-hand the devastating effects that micro-plastics and other environmental toxins can have on our bodies. She saw mothers succumb to illness and leave their families behind and a child as young as three fight for her life after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. This drove Maureen, Amanda, and Anne, three childhood best friends, to create something that was 100% free from plastic and fully recyclable; a product that was not only beneficial for our kids but also, for the planet.
The Impact of Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer touches the lives of nearly every single person. Globally, 400,000 kids are diagnosed with cancer each year and each day, 42 families will learn that their child is sick. The pain and anxiety that these children and their families face, day-in and day-out, is unimaginable, but we can help change these numbers.
Our Partnership Impact
Last year, we had the honor of gifting one of our indoor playhouses to a brave 2-year-old named Katalea, who is courageously battling a malignant yolk sac tumor. Seeing the joy and comfort this playhouse brought to Katalea inspired us to expand our efforts and invite you to join us in supporting more children like her.
Our mission is simple: for every $250 sponsorship, we will provide a child undergoing cancer treatment with a Make It Cute playhouse and a medical play kit. The playhouse offers a safe, calming space for children to relax and play, while the medical play kit, generously provided by ACCO, helps them understand their treatment in a comforting and engaging way.
The Power of Playhouses
Playhouses are more than just fun—they are essential tools that contribute to a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Here’s how they make a difference:
- Cognitive Development: Playhouses stimulate learning and creativity, fostering a child’s cognitive growth.
- Independence and Responsibility: They teach kids essential life skills, encouraging independence and a sense of responsibility.
- Social and Emotional Skills: Playhouses nurture social interaction and emotional intelligence, helping children express themselves and understand others.
- Calming and Soothing: Our indoor playhouses are “just right” sized for kids, allowing them to have their own sanctuary and special spot that is all their own. Our Modern Farmhouse and Cottage designs are hand-drawn by illustrator Sophia Vincent-Guy, purposefully utilizing muted colors and natural elements to provide a soothing aesthetic element to any space.
For children facing the stress of cancer treatments, the benefits of play are even more profound. According to UNICEF, play provides a critical outlet for children to process feelings like pain, fear, and loss, allowing them to maintain a sense of normalcy and joy. Playhouses offer a structured, comforting environment where children can express and regulate their emotions, enhancing their overall mental health and well-being.
A Mother's Perspective
As mothers of six children between them, the founders of Make It Cute deeply empathize with families facing a cancer diagnosis. The emotional and physical toll on a child and their family is immense, and they are committed to easing that burden in any way they can. By providing a small but meaningful source of joy, we hope to make these difficult days a little brighter.
How You Can Help
Your support can make a significant impact in the lives of children undergoing cancer treatments. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Donate: Sponsor a playhouse and medical playkit with a tax-deductible donation.Your donation will bring a smile to a child’s face and provide them with a comforting space to play and learn.
- Spread the Word: Share our initiative with friends, family, and your community. Every bit of awareness helps us reach more supporters and make a bigger difference.
- Corporate Sponsorship: If you represent a corporation, consider partnering with us for a sponsorship opportunity. Your business can play a vital role in supporting children and their families during this challenging time.
Together, we can spread hope, joy, and comfort to young cancer fighters. Join us this September in making a meaningful difference during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Connect with Us
Check out @MakeItCuteKids on Instagram to learn more about the ways we are making a difference in our communities and how you can help support children in need!
To make a donation or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit Sponsorships – Make It Cute, LLC (makeitcutekids.com). For any questions or further information, including corporate sponsorship opportunities, please email us at hello@makeitcutekids.com.