Lexington, KY, December 16, 2025
Jarrett’s Joy Cart, inspired by the late Jarrett Mynear, has transformed Golisano Children’s Hospital into a holiday wonderland for 25 years. This initiative enables young patients to select free gifts for loved ones, bringing joy and a sense of normalcy during difficult hospital stays. The program emphasizes community involvement, with volunteers helping to organize and distribute gifts, showcasing the power of generosity and compassion within Lexington, Kentucky.
Lexington, Kentucky
Jarrett’s Joy Cart Spreads Holiday Cheer for 25 Years
In December 2025, Jarrett’s Joy Cart celebrated its 25th anniversary by transforming the playroom at Golisano Children’s Hospital into a festive holiday store. This initiative not only allows young patients to choose free gifts for their parents, siblings, and caregivers but also fosters a sense of normalcy and joy during their hospital stays.
The program, which began in 2000, showcases the power of community engagement and personal initiative, inspired by the late Jarrett Mynear, who battled cancer multiple times. His vision of bringing joy to hospitalized children has grown into a beloved tradition, serving thousands of families and embodying the spirit of giving.
Origins of Jarrett’s Joy Cart
Jarrett’s Joy Cart was established in response to Jarrett Mynear’s own experiences during his illness. Recognizing how giving could uplift spirits, he initiated the effort to deliver toys to hospitalized children weekly. Tragically, Jarrett passed away at the young age of 13, but his legacy has lived on, with the holiday store expanding to allow patients to give gifts to their loved ones. This act of sharing not only brings joy but also provides patients a sense of control and connection, even in difficult circumstances.
Community Involvement and Impact
The success of Jarrett’s Joy Cart rests heavily on the involvement of volunteers and the generous support from the Lexington community. Individuals like Kim Chitwood exemplify this commitment; having experienced the joy of the store through her son Jared in 2017, she now dedicates her time to helping other families enjoy similar moments of happiness. The program has steadily grown, distributing over 1,000 gifts each holiday season, proving that community-driven efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of others.
Looking Ahead
As Jarrett’s Joy Cart reflects on 25 successful years, it drives the community to continue honoring Jarrett’s wish of enhancing the hospital experience for young patients. The holiday store remains a cherished tradition, proving that local initiatives, when supported by civic engagement and individual initiative, can harness the collective spirit of kindness and generosity.
How You Can Participate
Getting involved with Jarrett’s Joy Cart is straightforward and immensely rewarding. Community members can lend their support by volunteering for various roles, such as gift wrapping, organizing the holiday store, or simply encouraging families during their visits. Donations of new toys and games are also crucial for stocking the holiday store each year. This open invitation to participate not only strengthens community bonds but also highlights the powerful impact of individual contributions.
Conclusion
Jarrett’s Joy Cart serves as a shining example of how community-driven initiatives in Lexington, KY, can uplift the spirits of families facing medical challenges. The joy of giving, especially during the holiday season, resonates deeply within the community, solidifying the importance of participation and personal initiative in fostering goodwill. As we look towards the future, let us continue to support local efforts that enrich lives and strengthen community ties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Jarrett’s Joy Cart?
Jarrett’s Joy Cart is a program that began in 2000, inspired by Jarrett Mynear, a young boy who battled cancer multiple times. The initiative brings toys to children in hospitals each week and includes a holiday store where patients can select free gifts for their loved ones. Although Jarrett passed away in 2002 at the age of 13, his legacy continues to brighten the holidays for countless families.
How does the holiday store work?
During the holiday season, the playroom at Golisano Children’s Hospital is transformed into a festive store. Young patients can select free gifts for their parents, siblings, and caregivers. Volunteers assist in wrapping the gifts, allowing children to give presents to their loved ones during their hospital stay.
How can I get involved with Jarrett’s Joy Cart?
Community members can support Jarrett’s Joy Cart by volunteering their time or donating items. Volunteers assist with gift wrapping, organizing the holiday store, and providing support to families. Donations of new toys, games, and other goodies are also welcome to help stock the store each year.
Key Features of Jarrett’s Joy Cart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Annual Holiday Store | Transforms the hospital playroom into a festive store where patients select free gifts for their loved ones. |
| Volunteer Involvement | Community volunteers assist with gift wrapping, organizing the store, and supporting families during the holiday season. |
| Donation Opportunities | Accepts donations of new toys, games, and other goodies to stock the holiday store each year. |
| 25th Anniversary | Celebrated in December 2025, marking 25 years of spreading holiday cheer to hospitalized children. |
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