For the 18th consecutive year, the Jennings family has brought joy and comfort to children at Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital by delivering toys during the holiday season. This tradition aims to ease the stress the young patient’s families may face during hospital stays.
The annual donation is a heartfelt tribute to Robert Jennings, who tragically lost his life at the age of nine after being struck by a vehicle. Robert spent several days in the hospital before succumbing to his injuries. In the wake of their loss, the Jennings family has dedicated themselves to ensuring other children who are hospitalized or have a family member in the hospital can find solace in a new toy during what can be a difficult time.
“It’s a blessing for us to be able to do this and keep it going,” said Robert Jennings’ mother, Shawn Montgomery. “It warms my heart because we are all able to come together. And because of what we’re doing it for. I don’t want the kids to be scared. It’s all about the kids.”
The family members purchase the gifts themselves, including members of the youngest generation who save up to contribute. Friends and community members who knew Robert have also contributed to the effort.
The annual donation is a fitting tribute to Robert, who his mother said had a “heart of gold,” and always looked out for other kids. She recalls participating in charities in Sullivan with him before he passed away. “It was something he liked to do,” she said. “He was a very caring individual.”
In addition to their holiday toy donations, the Jennings family is passionate about raising awareness for organ donation, something Robert had shown interest in after seeing information on his older sister’s driver’s license. Robert did become an organ donor, providing life-saving gifts to two children and two adults.
“There are so many people out there who need an organ,” Montgomery said. “When you pass on an organ it could help someone else and could save a life, and that’s a life worth saving.”
Lisa Lochner, President of Missouri Baptist Sullivan, praised the Jennings family's ongoing project, saying, “We are deeply grateful to this caring family for their generous donation. Each year, these toys help improve experiences in the hospital for our young patients and family member. By sharing their kindness, they are honoring Robert’s legacy of compassion and reminding us all of the profound difference we can make when we come together to support one another as a community."