A Family Tradition of Holiday Giving

On Saturday morning, Harold and Nancy Zirkin continued a family tradition they started three years ago to bring cheer to kids in the hospital. Each year, the Zirkins, their children, and several of their grandchildren, make a special trip to Child’s Play, a local toy store, and choose the perfect gifts for children. Together, they deliver $10,000 worth of toys to Dr. Bear's Holiday Toy Shop at Children’s National, where parents and other caregivers select toys for their children, at no charge. During a stressful time when parents may not have time to shop outside the hospital, Santa's Toy Shop allows them to stay close to their children and celebrate the season. “I recall driving home from holiday shopping for my grandchildren several years ago and thinking, they already have everything they could possibly need,” Harold said. “But we knew there were so many other children who might not get gifts. We hope that through this tradition, our grandchildren will come to see the joy in giving to others.” The Zirkins began their partnership with Children’s National over 35 years ago, and Harold is now a member of the investment committee for Children’s National.