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Hospice Holiday Party A Hit

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SUNCOAST NEWS STAFF REPORT

Published: December 24, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY - Santa Claus made an early appearance during a recent Mending Hearts holiday party for children who have lost loved ones.

Forty-seven children attended the party at the Gulfside Regional Hospice main office in New Port Richey.

The children had filled out a wish list, Ashley Mann, community relations coordinator for the hospice, explained. Then their names were placed on a tree and selected by Gulfside staff and friends of the hospice, who bought the gifts.

Local businesses, including WDUV 105.5 FM, Macy's at the Gulf View Square mall, Taylor Freezer and Ultimate Vending, also provided gifts for the children.

The Mike Alstott Family Foundation gave $5,000 worth of toys, which filled over-sized stockings that each child took home with them to open later.

"The Mike Alstott Family Foundation was formed to help uplift the spirits of children and families in need," Mike Alstott, president of the foundation and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player, said in a press release.

"During the holiday season, it feels wonderful to help an organization like Gulfside Regional Hospice and bring a smile to the face of a grieving child," Alstott added.

At the party, Gulfside's bereavement staff dressed as elves to help Santa distribute the gifts to the kids. Santa led the children in singing popular holiday songs.

Catering company Bob Murphy's N.Y. Style Catering and Deli donated refreshments to the event, which everyone ate after the presents were opened.

The hospice provides all bereavement services free of charge to Pasco County residents. For more information call 727-845-5707 or go online to www.GRHospice.org.

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