Kids Wish Network brings hope to Alaska.

Hundreds of sick children will soon receive something to make their time at the hospital a little easier: new toys. This year, Alaska Native Medical Center will be the recipients of Holiday of Hope Gift Bank, a program hosted by Kids Wish Network. This Florida-based national charity is dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children. Tesoro Alaska and CIRI will be the presenting co-sponsors for this event.

As just one of the programs that makes Kids Wish Network different from similar organizations, its Holiday of Hope Gift Bank is a gift-giving program that brings cheer to children admitted to the hospital for treatment. More than $180,000 retail value worth of toys, donated by America's top manufacturers, will be distributed to these sick youngsters. The program will help alleviate fears and anxieties by allowing youngsters to temporarily forget about the stinging needles and painful treatments often endured while undergoing treatment.

"We are proud of our partnership with Kids Wish Network and urge Alaskans to support the Holiday of Hope," stated Stephen Hansen, Kenai refinery manager and Tesoro vice president.

Kids Wish Network's Holiday of Hope Gift Bank at Alaska Native Medical Center will last until all of the toys have been placed into the hands of the deserving young patients.