Small Things, Big Impact: Lake Oswego Middle School Gives Back to Babies in Need

At Chelsea Hicks Foundation, we are continually inspired by young people who choose to make a difference in the lives of others. Recently, the students of Lake Oswego Middle School did exactly that through their Small Things, Big Impact supply drive benefiting babies and young children served through our hospital programs.

Behind this meaningful effort was Heather Bryant’s Leadership class, whose students saw an opportunity to help and turned it into action. Through their creativity, organization, and compassion, they inspired fellow students to come together in support of children and families facing serious illness.

The drive focused on collecting items for infants and toddlers, and the students gathered an assortment of thoughtful donations, including board books, baby wipes, teethers, rattles, bath toys, baby bottles, puzzles, and other baby essentials. While these items may seem simple, they will have a meaningful impact on the children and families who receive them.

When a baby is facing a serious illness or extended hospital stay, families often spend long hours in hospitals navigating treatments, procedures, and uncertainty. A colorful rattle, a new board book, or a comforting teether can provide moments of joy, distraction, and connection during an incredibly difficult time.

These donations will be included in Chelsea Hicks Foundation’s hospital programs and baby care packages, helping us support some of our youngest patients and their families. Each item represents kindness, compassion, and the knowledge that someone cares.

The name of the drive perfectly reflects what these students accomplished. Small Things, Big Impact is more than a theme. It is a reminder that every act of generosity matters. Every item collected will help brighten a hospital room, encourage play, comfort a child, or provide support to a family facing unimaginable challenges.

We are especially grateful to Heather Bryant and the students in her Leadership class for their vision and commitment to serving others. By creating this project, they demonstrated that leadership is about recognizing a need, bringing people together, and making a positive difference in the community.

Thank you to the students, families, teachers, and staff of Lake Oswego Middle School for helping us bring hope, comfort, and moments of childhood joy to the children and families we serve. Your kindness will reach far beyond the walls of your school and into the hearts of families who need it most.

Because of you, babies and families facing serious illness will receive not only helpful items, but also a reminder that they are cared for by a community that believes they matter.