Chelsea’s Closet
For a seriously ill child or youth, the magical moments of costume play therapy contain healing power that positively impacts mental health, empowers children, and brings hope to their journey.
Chelsea’s Closet is a rolling dress-up closet that brings therapeutic healing, magical moments, and comforting escapism to seriously ill children in local hospitals. Through imaginative play, our program helps children play, pretend, and laugh—inspiring hope and healing during some of their most difficult days.
During each visit, children are invited to choose a brand-new costume with accessories, allowing them to transform into whatever makes them feel confident, brave, or simply happy. These moments of pretend play offer emotional relief and a meaningful break from the routines of treatment. Oftentimes, CHF hosts a parade, party or event children can participate in to show off their costumes, creating a light and uplifting moment for patients, families, and staff.
For children who cannot leave their rooms, we deliver the full experience to them—a costume, a craft project, and a goody bag—ensuring every child receives their own magical moment.
Chelsea’s Closet began at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in 2010. Today, our program continues monthly visits at Doernbecher and Randall Children’s Hospitals, including permanent costume closets in Randall’s oncology and physical therapy units.Our work with children at Shriner’s Hospital in their Halo Unit and has expanded to monthly visits to Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. In addition to our hospital visits, we partner with numerous local nonprofits that support children with serious and life-changing illnesses, allowing us to bring the same healing moments of play and imagination to children beyond hospital walls.
Chelsea’s Closet now serves more than 2,400 children and their families each year, bringing magical moments, comfort, and healing through the timeless power of play.
