For the eight consecutive year, personnel from the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) delivered toys to hospitalized children at the Benjamin Bloom National Children’s Hospital in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Gennaro Gory, who lead the U.S. Embassy’s collection drive, said the toys were donated by staff of the various agencies and offices of the U.S. Embassy. This year U.S. Embassy official Mr. Daniel Gilbride dressed up as Santa Claus to bring joy to Bloom’s hospitalized children, and distribute over 277 toys. Additionally, local artist Jose Retana donated 375 baby bottles to the hospital.
Dr. Patricia de Calderón, head of Plastic Surgery and the Burns Unit, said she is very proud that the Embassy always keeps in mind burned children, especially during the holiday season, when burn injuries increase. Members of the US Embassy said they were excited and felt blessed by being allowed the opportunity to give back to the local community.
