Finding Joy in the Journey: How Dunkin’ Joy Supports Kids with Cancer

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month – a time to honor the resilience of children fighting cancer, to support their families, and to shine a light on the organizations working tirelessly to bring them comfort, hope, and joy. At the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, we believe that even in the most difficult moments, joy has the power to heal. That’s why we’re proud to support partners who make life brighter for children navigating cancer treatment.

This year, two of our grantees – The Boston House in Brookline, MA, and A Moment of Magic Foundation in Manhattan, NY – shared how Dunkin’ Joy support has helped them in meaningful ways.

A Space to Just Be a Kid

At The Boston House, families who travel for their child’s care at Boston Children’s Hospital or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute find more than a place to stay – they find a place of comfort and togetherness when it’s needed most. Leveraging a grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, their teen room was recently transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space filled with new furniture, art, games, and technology.

The updates created a safe haven where older children and teens can relax, socialize, and feel like themselves again – something especially important for kids who often feel isolated during treatment. A new lending library of Nintendo Switches even ensures that medically fragile children, who cannot use shared spaces, still get to experience moments of fun and connection.

The transformation has gone beyond expectations: parents now use the space to work and stay tuned into home while their children play, turning the room into a resource for the entire family. As The Boston House shared, “Healing involves more than just medical care – it’s about nurturing the whole child.”

A Little Magic Goes a Long Way

For A Moment of Magic Foundation, joy comes dressed as a superhero, princess, or beloved character. Their network of highly trained college student volunteers brings light, laughter, and healing-centered programming to children in hospitals and care centers.

With a $25,000 grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, A Moment of Magic delivered programming to more than 500 children in New York City and 18,000 nationwide, doubling their previous impact. The results speak for themselves:

• 92% of healthcare partners reported improved emotional and mental well-being for children.
• 92% said it helped reduce patient stress.
• 100% agreed it increased patient engagement and enhanced quality of life.

Behind those numbers are real children and families. One parent shared, “You brought life back to my daughter’s face. Thank you for what you do.”

Why It Matters

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that while doctors and nurses provide lifesaving medical care, organizations like The Boston House and A Moment of Magic Foundation create spaces, experiences, and moments that help kids feel like kids again.

We’re honored to support their work and to stand alongside so many others who believe in the power of joy. Together, we can bring comfort, connection, and resilience to children and families facing the unimaginable.