Tricky tray to help families caring for sick children

HAWLEY — No parent should have to prioritize a payment or a job before the care of their sick child.
That's the rallying cry of Pennies from Heaven Caleb's Foundation, which is planning a tricky tray fundraiser from noon to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 30, at The Dock on Wallenpaupack (formerly Ehrhardt’s Restaurant) in Hawley. Proceeds will give the parents of sick children extra financial support so they can focus exclusively on their child’s recovery.
The 8th annual tricky tray features more than 150 themed baskets, each valued at $100 and more, with offerings for every family member.
Admission is free, and a cash bar will be available. There will be door prizes and desserts.
The cost is $8 for 25 tickets, with value packs available for $50. Bring extra pennies and other change to toss into Caleb’s Wishing Well.
The basket drawing will be held both upstairs and downstairs. New this year: Bring a new Crayola item and receive a free raffle ticket. Crayola products will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Last year’s event raised $51,000 for families in need. Since May 2010 the foundation has financially assisted more than 515 families with a critically ill child. To become a monetary sponsor or for more information, email calebspennies18@gmail.com or visit calebspennies.org.
The foundation was named for Caleb, a little boy with an amazing spirit, infectious laugh, and energy for life that was unmatched. In February 2007, at age 2, Caleb died after being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.
“Our mission has remained steadfast and that is to support parents in the care of their sick child by relieving the stress of financial burdens at home,” said Caleb’s mom, Nichole. "We help by covering rent, mortgage, electric, medical bills, and much more.
“My family and I started this foundation as a way to help others while honoring Caleb’s memory. He inspired us to take the tragedy of losing him and turn it into something positive. Although his life ended much too soon, his legacy lives on through Pennies from Heaven and the families we assist.”