DOWNEY - Delta Kappa Gamma presented 24 "Jared Boxes' to Long Beach Memorial's Miller Children's Hospital in January.The members of Delta Kappa Chapter decorated plastic shoe boxes which were then filled with an assortment of donated children's toys and games. Each Jared Box contained items selected for a specific age group and gender. The purpose of the box is to lift the spirits of chronically ill children. They also serve as diversions for young patients as they receive chemotherapy and other medical treatments. Jared Boxes were inspired in 2001 by a 5-year-old boy who battled cancer. He always brought his backpack filled with toys and games to his appointments and wondered why other children did not do the same, project organizers said. In addition to creating Jared Boxes, Downey's chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma also sends books each month to the TLC Center, a local program that offers a variety of assistance to families in need, including medical help, legal aid, and counseling. The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International promotes professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education. ********** Published: February 13, 2009 - Volume 7 - Issue 43