For the 17th year, Hats for Hope has delivered thousands of handcrafted and purchased items to adult and pediatric patients at the North Carolina Basnight Cancer Hospital. In this year’s donation, several hundred hats, scarves and similar comfort items were dropped off in a heartfelt display of support and solidarity.
Founded in memory of 9-year-old Charli Ramsey, whose courageous fight with leukemia inspired the original drive, the organization continues to bring warmth and hope to those undergoing treatment.
“This has become our holiday tradition,” said Charli’s mom and event organizer, Elizabeth Stewart. “We bring these items not just as gifts, but as reminders that our community stands beside you through every step of the journey.”
Hospital staff say the annual delivery sets a remarkable tone of care and compassion. “The scale and consistency of these donations are unique,” explained Kelly Kivette, oncology patient navigator. “Year after year, the patients and families feel seen — and that matters.”
The drop-off took place at the Mary Anne Long Patient and Family Resource Center at the hospital, where the donations were greeted with gratitude and festive cheer. The items will be distributed across adult and pediatric units, so that every patient may receive a tangible token of encouragement.
As Hats for Hope reaches its 17th year, the enduring partnership between the community and the cancer center stands as a meaningful example of caring in action — offering comfort, connection and hope during one of life’s most challenging seasons.
