Kids to give story on hospital program (Alberta Children's Hospital)

Emily's Backyard is one of those special programs at Alberta Children's Hospital that abounds with extraordinary stories. The creative-play program has become a renowned part of the hospital, and now, as Calgary Co-op makes a major donation to the program, the play area will open its doors so kids can tell the tale.

Emily's Backyard is a creative play space where over 8,000 patients and siblings come each year to get back to the business of being a kid. Through games, crafts and art, trained volunteers help put a smile on kids' faces - which can go a long way, and is of great help to parents allowing them a safe place to leave their children while meeting with doctors.

On March 12th, at 1:30 p.m. at Alberta Children's Hospital (1820 Richmond Rd. S.W.), both the kids and volunteers will open the doors of Emily's Backyard to the media, allowing an in-depth look into what has become such an important part of the Hospital. Experts will be available to discuss why the program is invaluable, as will Co-op executives and employees after making a brief $57,000 cheque presentation in support of the program.

"Emily's Backyard is such an important part of the hospital because of what it brings to the children. It allows kids to be kids, and it contributes to healing and emotional development. It is also a huge help to parents by alleviating the stress of having to keep patients and siblings busy while waiting for appointments," says Program Coordinator Anne Screaton.

That's why Calgary Co-op is making the donation to support the Emily's Backyard. Employees have raised $28,000 through various fundraising initiatives, and Co-op has matched that amount. "Calgary Co-op and employees have been long-time supporters of the program because they believe in the philosophy behind it," says Donna Burn, director of member and public relations for Calgary Co-op. "Our employees work tirelessly throughout the year to raise funds for this important cause," says Burn. In the past two years, Calgary Co-op employees have donated a total of $121,534 to the hospital. This is in addition to the $500,000 five-year pledge from Calgary Coop for the construction of Emily's Backyard in the new hospital.

Emily's Backyard was established in 1986 and has been a prominent fixture in the hospital ever since. The program relies on approximately 85 volunteers over the course of the year to fill 5,000 volunteer hours, thus ensuring a safety conscious ratio of one volunteer to every four children - and those patients requiring extra care are given one-on-one attention. Emily's Backyard is open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mon. through Fri. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Mon. through Thurs, and calling
ahead for an appointment is recommended (943-7997).

Calgary Co-op is a generous supporter of Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation, having supported Emily's Backyard through the Foundation for a number of years. This is just one example of the approximately $5 million worth of programs, services, equipment, education and research the Foundation funds each year at the hospital, all in an effort to further the pursuit of excellence in family centered care.

Note: All children not wearing "hero buttons" have pre-arranged media consent.

For more information contact:

Rob Gray
Communications & Marketing Coordinator
Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation
Tel: 209-4352
email: rgray@achf.com

Darlene Yewchuk
Corporate & Community Giving Manager
Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation
Tel: 209-3726
email: dyewchuk@achf.com

Donna Burn
Director, Public Relations
Calgary Co-op
Tel: 219-6025, ext. 6258
email: dburn@calgarycoop.com