By Jennifer Baeskens |Staff Writer|
Sandy and Tony Capelli found out during their fifth month of pregnancy that their unborn son, Steven, had a rare heart defect.
They were then faced with the decision of continuing their pregnancy or not.
The couple chose to continue the pregnancy.
Thirty two hours after Steven was born, he died. His short life turned into a miracle.
Tony and Sandy founded Steven’s Hope for Children in 2002 as a way to ease their pain and find meaning to Steven’s death.
The vision that Steven’s Hope showcases is, “No family should be left alone during their time of a child’s health crisis.”
Steven’s Hope offers many benefits, such as housing to families of seriously ill or injured children.
Housing for Hope offers families a place to stay while their children are receiving treatment near Loma Linda University.
The apartments are fully furnished and have all the amenities they need in order to feel as comfortable as possible.
The foundation also offers the “We Care” Program and the “Fill a Need” Program. These programs offer a shoulder to cry on and an ear to listen for the families.
They also offer support for daily finances such as groceries and gas, as well as fun items like Disneyland tickets, and baseball game tickets.
Volunteers allow Steven’s Hope to continue.
“We have volunteers from local schools and colleges,” said Jeanine Woods, a manager at Steven’s Hope.
“We get volunteers from Cal Works, the re-employability program, and other agencies such as United Way,” continued Woods.
The volunteers’ presence can be seen all throughout Steven’s Hope, but their presence is really felt at the Children’s Boutique.
The passion and dedication is apparent with the many volunteers who spend countless hours working to help make a child’s day.
The boutiques have gently used and new items for infants, children and teens.
All proceeds from the boutiques go directly to Steven’s Hope.
On March 26, Jersey Mike’s Subs partnered with Steven’s Hope to raise money.
Twenty-one locations across the Inland Empire participated by donating 100 percent of the proceeds made that day.
“In total, we received $121,316,” said Woods.
Lulu Tyner, programs and events coordinator, wants to let the community know that there is a benefit golf tournament in May, as well a run in September.
They are always looking for volunteers, whether it be for events, or at the boutiques, all volunteers are welcome.
It is recommended that you attend their Vision of Hope, which is held on the first Tuesday of every month, from 6:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m and the third Friday of the month from 10:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. They are both held at the Upland location. More information can be found on their website, stevenshope.org.
One of the main core values at Steven’s Hope is to “make ripples.”
Tony and Sandy took the death of their son and they have made more than ripples, they made waves.
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