The SOS program will provide  caring and supportive sibling support to the siblings of hospital patients allowing them to feel the focus of attention that is often not able to be given by the parents as they provide the care and support to the patient in the hospital. The program will allow a sibling and volunteer time to play games, do crafts and art, and spend time outside on hospital property. Special events will also be held for the siblings.

Potential volunteers will apply to the program after completing the in house volunteer requirements, receiving a referral from their current patient care supervisor, and be interviewed by the Director of SOS prior to being accepted into the program. All volunteers will attend a SOS orientation to help ensure the proper sibling support training to being matched with a sibling.

Volunteers will be matched with a sibling based on gender, interests, availability, etc. The SOS sibling will have the opportunity to meet with a volunteer on a weekly basis for a one on one session. Caregivers will be required to stay within the hospital premises during Shine Time sessions.

Admission into the program will be based upon needs assessments performed in collaboration with hospital Social Workers and Child Life Specialists.

Click here to learn more about Providing for Our Parents (POP), a parent support program.