Providence Alaska Children’s Hospital dedicates Panda Cares Center of Hope

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Providence Alaska Children’s Hospital formally dedicated the Panda Cares Center of Hope during a celebration event on Friday, June 20.

The Panda Cares Center of Hope is a room in the hospital that provides pediatric patients and their family members a place where they can play with toys, read, do crafts and take a break from the stress and anxiety of their medical treatments.

Through its partnership with Children’s Miracle Network, during the past 10 years Panda Cares has donated more than $400,000 to Providence Alaska. Panda Cares is the philanthropic arm of the Panda Express Restaurant Group.

“Panda Cares is an amazing partner in our community that shares our vision for ensuring Alaska’s kids have a space of their own to begin their healing journey,” said Margaret Horvath, FACHE, executive director of Providence Alaska Children's Hospital. “The Panda Cares Center of Hope provides pediatric patients and their families with a place to relax, play games, and maybe forget they’re in a hospital for a little while.”

Studies have shown that a playroom within a hospital can help with the mental, physical and emotional well-being of children and contribute to their recovery.

“Hospitals can be intimidating places for children, filled with unfamiliar sights and sounds and unwanted physical touch,” said Ashley Lee, a Child Life specialist at the hospital. “Every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, happy, and hopeful. This playroom can be an important part of healing and coping for both patients and family members.”

Providence Alaska caregivers were joined by Panda Express employees from all over Alaska at the event, including one of the restaurant chain’s panda bear mascots. The dedication ceremony was followed by an opportunity to visit the Panda Cares Center of Hope and tours of Providence Alaska Children's Hospital.

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