CHILDREN USE HATS AS A GESTURE OF LOVE AND PROTECTION

We know that hats protect its wearer from the elements, but it seems hats also do double duty for philanthropy and friendship. Craig and Jonathan Bolz from Boca Raton, Florida have been delivering hats to children with cancer who live in hospitals.

“Craig, 15, and his younger brother Jonathan have collected thousands of hats and delivered them to children in area hospitals through a project called “Hats for Kids.” The two deliver the hats - in decorated boxes - to the pediatric oncology wards at St. Mary’s Hospital in West Palm Beach and Joe DiMaggio Hospital in Fort Lauderdale.”

The Bolz boys get the hats by sending letters to local businesses, schools, temples and other organizations. So far they’ve had a huge response, receiving hats from Warner Brothers, Universal and the Florida Marlins.

“The kids there aren’t looking forward to anything. The only thing they look forward to is when we come,” said 12-year-old Jonathan. “And we get to see smiles on their faces. It’s a great thing and makes them feel more normal and like they are at home.”

The nurses said that two new girls who started chemotherapy had never smiled, but after getting new hats they smiled for the first time.

To donate new or unused hats to the Bolz brothers, contact Congregation B’nai Israel at 2200 Yamato Road, Boca Raton 33431 and put attention Craig or Jonathan Bolz- Hats for Kids - or call - 561.241.8118 or 561- 241.1484.

Jonathan and Craig Bolz