Jocelyn’s Wish Helps Spread Joy

BURNSVILLE, N.C. (December 2020): Jocelyn thought she was running an errand with her family at Home Depot in Asheville. She had no idea it was actually part of a plan with Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses. Jocelyn was warmly greeted by Home Depot staff amid a forest of lighted Christmas trees surrounding a massive display of presents with her name on it. “Kids Wish Network is making your dream come true, and all of us here at Home Depot are beyond thrilled to do something so special for you,” said Allyson Montgomery of Human Resources. Jocelyn’s presents included Christmas-themed toys and big boxes that contained an exquisite Lifetime shed that will soon be transformed into her beautiful new playhouse. Home Depot’s Operation Surprise foundation awarded an American Express gift card to Home Depot for Jocelyn’s amazing playhouse. Kids Wish also purchased Jocelyn a generous Home Depot gift card to shop for additional items and accessories. 

“I’m so thankful to work for a company that allows us to give to our communities,” said Home Depot Store Manager Teresa Spoonholtz. “Thank you Kids Wish Network and Team Depot for helping us spread joy not only to this beautiful family but to the entire team here today. The associates are so thankful and can’t stop talking about how amazing it is to be a part of today. It has lifted so many spirits!”  Merchandising Assistant Store Manager Peter Frank was enthusiastically involved in every aspect of Jocelyn’s heartfelt wish. “Everyone went above and beyond,” said her dad Chris. “They were really excited about it.  I was getting emotional myself. It really got to me.”

New Playhouse Lifts Spirits

Jocelyn’s new shed is styled to look like a real home with decorative shutters and other stylish design features. Home Depot also donated mini spruce trees in pots for added curb appeal. The inside will be just as inviting with a giant pink bean bag chair courtesy of Big Joe, and a pink and white desk provided by Little Seeds. Monkey Business donated doll furniture for Jocelyn to play within her new space, and a gift card so she can have fun shopping for even more miniatures. 

Jocelyn was born with Down Syndrome, has dealt with the uncertainty of seizures, and also suffers from several digestive issues, having undergone surgeries and procedures that affect her daily life. Her biggest health challenges are from encephalopathy, a disease that affects brain structure and function. 

“We’re thrilled being able to give Jocelyn her amazing wish and early holiday cheer that will bring her ongoing happiness,” said her Wish Coordinator Kim Kreiner.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network would like to thank the following sponsors: 

• Home Depot Asheville store #3625

• Monkey Business

• Little Seeds

• Big Joe bean bag chairs

Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about the different programs.

Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.