Founded in 1999, Henry Schein's Holiday Cheer for Children initiative is designed to make the holiday wishes of underserved children, their families, and senior citizens in the local areas where Henry Schein has a presence come true during the end-of-year holidays. Team Schein Members contribute their time and money to ensure that the holidays are brighter for children and their families. Over the years, the program has been replicated in multiple locations throughout the United States and around the world, with more than 1,000 recipients participating annually. In all locations, this program is held in partnership with various local social service agencies that assist in the identification of children, their families, and senior citizens in need in their local community.
In 2023, Team Schein Members (TSMs) from around the globe celebrated 25 years of the Company's "Holiday Cheer for Children" program. Since 1999, this corporate flagship initiative has helped more than 20,000 underserved children, their families, and senior citizens experience cheerful holidays, with TSMs donating clothing, comfort items, toys, gift cards, and more.
At its corporate headquarters in Melville, New York, Team Schein hosted a "Holiday Cheer for Children" event, where 100 children and their families opened presents while enjoying a fun-filled night with dinner, games, and music. In addition, 300 participants received gift cards purchased through support from the Henry Schein Cares Foundation to help alleviate some of the financial burden many individuals face during the holidays.
"We are pleased to celebrate 25 years of fostering holiday joy for families all over the world," said Stanley M. Bergman, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Henry Schein. "'Holiday Cheer for Children' is not just an initiative, it is a reflection of Team Schein's commitment to giving back to the communities in which we live and work. Thank you to all of Team Schein, who throughout the years, has helped keep the spirit of the program alive. We look forward to many more years of Holiday Cheer to come."
Highlights of the program's 25 years
Larry Kravitz, Director of Organizational Development at Henry Schein, sat down with Mark Wenzel, Assistant Director at YES Community Counseling Center, to discuss how the program helps make the holiday season enjoyable for communities around the world.