“Thoughtful and Inclusive” and an Interdisciplinary Effort
The Sunshine Children’s Home and Rehab Center is a very special place. This local facility is recognized as one of the top facilities of its kind, earning both five stars out of five from the government, as well as ranking in the US News and World report two years in a row.
What does Sunshine Children’s Home and Rehab Center offer? Their website says “Sunshine Children’s Home is a 54-bed licensed nursing facility that specializes in the care and treatment of medically complex children who require post-acute, rehabilitative care.” What does this mean to the lay person? They offer both short term and long term care, depending on the needs of the child. Unique to Sunshine is that the warmth that emanates from them.Their mission is, in part, to be a “second home” to the child, while providing necessary medical treatment and/or other related services. They foster an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating physical therapy, speech services, occupational therapy etc., as needed.
For the children who reside at Sunshine, the holidays are especially important. The children look forward to this festive time all year! They are celebrated several different ways, and the celebratory season begins with Thanksgiving. For this kick off to the holiday season, the extended family, inclusive of the children, their family and their Sunshine family all dine together on a Thanksgiving meal. Children create various themed crafts in celebration of the holiday.
As the holidays progress, Linda Mosiello, the Administrator for Sunshine, said, “The month of December is one extended, inclusive holiday season as we celebrate Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa. Each holiday is rich with traditions and customs, energizing our staff to prepare joyful celebrations that capture the spirit of each. We have come to learn that thoughtful and inclusive holiday celebrations bring comfort to all the families–embodying our view that we are a second home for them.” This perspective and approach are part of what makes Sunshine such a special place.
Linda also expressed much gratitude to our local community, its organizations and volunteers alike, as well as donors who play such a vital role in the holiday celebrations for the children who reside there.
She said, “We are joined in our efforts by the generosity of community organizations and volunteer groups who seek to bring smiles to the children through ongoing celebration and gift giving.” She cited Scouts who make cards and sing to the children, as well as retired and still active members of the Police force who help bring holiday cheer to the children. Volunteers and staff guide the children in holiday games, baking, caroling and of course, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The Sunshine Children’s Home and Rehabilitation Center fills a need in the Westchester community and excels at it by creating a home away from home for these children and their families. Ms. Mosiello said it best when she said, “Sunshine is a remarkable home for our special children all year round, and they are extra blessed during the holiday season.”
Heather Skolnick, her husband Neal and three young children have lived in New Castle the last ten years. When Heather isn’t writing articles, she works for a footwear company as the Director of Planning.
