Comfort just arrived in Tampa
Creature Comfort Foundation Donates Slumberkins Bigfoot and Sprite Kins to St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital to Support Pediatric Patients with Emotional Healing Tools
Comfort Arrives at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
TAMPA, FL — Creature Comfort Foundation is proud to announce a recent donation of Slumberkins Bigfoot and Sprite Kins to the pediatric patients at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, part of the BayCare Health System. The donation brings emotional comfort, therapeutic play, and story-based learning tools to children undergoing treatment in the hospital's intensive care units.
Recognized as one of the most comprehensive children’s hospitals in Florida, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital offers a full range of pediatric services, including a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center, pediatric cardiac care, and more than 80 pediatric specialists. Their commitment to holistic care and emotional support makes them a natural partner for Creature Comfort Foundation's mission.
As part of the donation, patients received Slumberkins Bigfoot Kin, a creature that helps children explore self-esteem and inner strength, and Sprite Kin, a character designed to support kids experiencing grief, loss, or transition. These plush companions are accompanied by storybooks and affirmations that guide children in understanding and managing their emotions.
“Thank you so much again for the Slumberkins — our patients have been loving them so far!” said Ashlyn Strathman, MS, CCLS, Certified Child Life Specialist II in the PICU & PCICU at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
The donation reflects Creature Comfort Foundation’s growing national initiative to partner with children’s hospitals and child life specialists in delivering emotional support through carefully chosen therapeutic items. The organization also provides ComfortKits, which include activity tools, storybooks, and calming items that encourage emotional expression and resilience during hospital stays.
“Our goal is to create small moments of comfort during big moments of stress,” said Ava Builione, Founder of Creature Comfort Foundation. “Working with teams like St. Joseph’s allows us to extend the impact of our mission into the hands of incredible caregivers and brave young patients.”
Creature Comfort Foundation invites hospitals and child life professionals to reach out for partnership opportunities. Community members can also help expand this mission through donations that fund new deliveries and custom resources.
To learn more or to support the mission, visit creaturecomfort.org and follow us on instagram.