by Nikyah Thomas-Pfeiffer on 2014-06-25
Redlands High School sophomore Swathi Balaji presented a check for more than $1,500 to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Redlands Community Hospital.
The check represents months of fundraising activities by Balaji as part of the “Multiply our Generosity Contest,” a contest held by the Redlands Compact Club, an educational club that encourages acts of community service. Balaji was awarded first place in the contest, where she received a $1,000 college scholarship and $100 towards a cause of her choice.
“After taking a unique tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Redlands, I felt immeasurably inspired and touched at the sight of the premature infants,” Balaji explained prior to her endeavor. “By taking this step to fundraise for the NICU, I can contribute to the health of future generations with each small step that I take.”
Belaji also organized a penny drive at Mariposa Elementary School in Redlands, which resulted in over $800 raised by the students. The winning class was treated to an ice cream party.
The donation will be given to the Redlands Community Hospital Foundation, which will use the money to purchase medical supplies such as zero gravity chairs, gel pillows and oscillating swings for the NICU. These contributions will help improve the health of premature infants and assist new mothers with breastfeeding and skin-to-skin bonding with their newborns.