Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital continued its long-standing tradition of giving this season, partnering with the YMCA’s Angel Tree Program to provide gifts for children and families facing financial hardship. Staff members collected and delivered toys, clothing, and essential household items—fulfilling wish lists created by local children and helping ensure they experience a joyful holiday.
The partnership is one the hospital treasures, said Beth Reimschissel, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights. “Memorial Hermann Greater Heights is really proud to support our YMCA’s Angel Tree program,” she said. “The Angel Tree program is really cool because it focuses and supports our local families in this community here that might be experiencing any financial hardships during the holiday season.”
Beth Reimschissel, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights, discusses the hospital’s participation in the YMCA Angel Tree Program. (Screen grab from video, courtesy of Memorial Hermann Greater Heights)
Each child, referred to as an “angel,” submits a wish list that employees then shop from. The program has become a meaningful tradition for hospital staff. “It’s a way for our employees to work together and come together to shop and get creative and focus on the children in our community,” Reimschissel said.
This year, the hospital adopted 20 angels and their families—purchasing not only children’s gifts but also household essentials. “It’s been really neat to see just the meaningful and personable gifts that we’ve gotten for the family and the joy that it continues to give to the families,” she added. “It’s truly been an inspiration to see all of our employees come together to do this.”
Julian Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA, emphasized the impact of the program. “YMCA Angel Tree is an opportunity to support families and kiddos in our local community,” he said. “Having a meaningful holiday experience shouldn’t be something a child has to forfeit.”
For many Memorial Hermann employees, participating is personal. Case Manager Janie Odems said, “We really try to stick to the list… Oftentimes we are blessed to have more money to be able to get them extra. Love participating. It just feels really good to do.”
Clinical Manager Chadney Mosley echoed the sentiment, describing the program as another bridge connecting the hospital to its neighbors. “My team was eager to participate… it’s another way to bridge the gap between our hospital and our community,” he said. “My favorite part about participating is knowing that we’re making an impact in our community. It’s a part of Memorial Hermann’s mission and it shows the community that we care about them not just in our hospital but once they leave.”
Staff members hope their efforts deliver warmth, comfort, and joy to families who need it most—continuing a community tradition that grows stronger every year.