Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House has expanded its gift shop operations to now include Dupont Hospital. The announcement was made earlier today at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Dupont’s renovated space.

“Since May 2013, we have successfully partnered with Lutheran Hospital in the management of its gift shop operations as a means for financial support,” said the nonprofit’s executive director Andrew Gritzmaker. In October, we finalized an agreement with Dupont Hospital to manage its gift shop operations as well. All proceeds from both locations support our home and the families we care for.”

A number of local supporters of the Children’s Hope House were present at the event including members of the project’s general contractor, Shawnee Construction, officials from Dupont Hospital, and members of the Mad Anthonys Children’s Charity.

“We’re delighted to have so many supporters for our expansion, but our association with the Mad Anthonys Children’s Charity, the continued support of Bruce Dye, and our ongoing partnership with Lutheran Health Network have allowed this opportunity,” commented Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House Board President Lorie Ailor.

Firefly Coffee House, locally owned by Paul and Cyndi Demaree at 3523 N. Anthony Blvd., consulted on all café related items for the expanded gift shop at Dupont. Lutheran and Dupont hospitals donate the cost of the leases, utilities and maintenance at each location. Both shops are also supported through hospital-based volunteer programs.

“We feel the gift shops serve as an extension of the respite we provide our families while also helping us meet the financial needs of our operations,” added Gritzmaker.

Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House is a non-profit hospitality house that provides shelter, meals, laundry facilities and a peaceful refuge for families with children who are critically ill or injured. The house opened in 2003 and today features 10 private bedrooms with private baths, a fully equipped kitchen, pantry, living room, TV lounge, computer room and meditation room. For more information, visit www.childrenshopefw.org .