Sylvie Schneider, a compassionate teen from Cold Spring Harbor, has transformed her empathy into an ongoing initiative that brings books and toys to children during their annual medical checkups. Through her Birthday Box Foundation, Sylvie focuses on 6-year-olds, filling boxes with an assortment of toys and books such as Nerf balls, Jenga, Guess Who?, and Sorry.
Inspired by her parents’ contributions of books for younger children, Sylvie wanted to ensure that 6-year-olds didn’t feel overlooked. Each month, she prepares and delivers 12 boxes, wrapped in blue, pink, or green, to the Northwell Family Health Center in Huntington Station. These boxes are given to children after their checkups, often scheduled around their birthdays, and they are encouraged to share the gifts with their siblings.
Sylvie has been sourcing the gifts from local stores and an Amazon wishlist for about three years. Despite her success, she hopes to expand the program to include children of more ages but requires additional financial support.
Dr. William C. Gehrhardt, a pediatrician at the health center, praised Sylvie’s efforts, saying, “We need more Sylvie Schneiders!”
To support the Birthday Box Foundation through purchases or donations, visit Sylvie’s Amazon wishlist here or donate via GoFundMe here.
Source: Teen Turns Commitment to Help Others Into Birthday Box Project