Sunshine Foundation Operation DreamLift shines light in the hearts of many

Operation DreamLift 2018
A young boy pumps his fist in excitement as he makes his way to the Dreamlift Plane and is welcomed by dozens of New Jersey State Police. Photo by Michael A. Sabo

The weather isn’t the only thing that has warmed up.  The Mercer County Chapter of the Sunshine Foundation has filled the hearts of local children with special needs with a bit of magic, hope, and warmth – even if only for a day with its Operation Dreamlift, a one-day excursion to Disney World in Orlando Florida at the Magic Kingdom.

Below is a Facebook Live video from our Friends at WBCB with the Trentonian columnist L.A. Parker.

Sunshine Foundation Dreamlift (Mercer County Chapter): Since Sunshine Foundation started its Dreamlift program, over 99 chartered planes have taken over 5,000 chronically ill, physically challenged and abused children to Florida from cities across the United States. Universal Studios or Disney World! Make a donation today! Visit www.sunshinefoundation.org

Posted by WBCB Sports on Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Hundreds of supporters, family members, community members, volunteers and of course as they have done for over thirty years – the law enforcement community were up bright and early gathering at the National Guard Armory at the Mercer County Airport to assist the Sunshine Foundation’s 31st Operation Dreamlift.

“It’s a magical day. Every time we go, it amazes me to see the outpouring of generosity from the Mercer County community. It overwhelms me how they give whatever they have to offer to make sure these kids have a great time.” -Cathy DiCostanzo, Sunshine Foundation president

Bill Sample, a Philadelphia police officer, started the Sunshine Foundation in 1976 after his protective duty job at a city hospital showed him issues faced by families of children with illnesses.

Photo Slideshow by Michael A. Sabo -https://hamiltonpulse.com

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Sample’s first wish granted a young man a trip to the Poconos. Since then, thousands of children from different parts of the U.S. have journeyed to Disney World.

30 years later Mercer County Chapter of the all-volunteer Sunshine Foundation has fulfilled Samples vision, brought smiles to thousands of special children, tears of joy to our eyes and warmth in our hearts.

Awesome Video Recap by Michael Mancuso of NJ.com and the Trenton Times

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