Disney has brought a smile to our face in a lot of ways over the last few weeks. Whether it’s reading us bedtime stories or streaming live on Facebook, Disney performers and celebrities have come into our homes digitally in ways that have brought some joy to these uncertain times. But these aren’t the only ways they’re making us smile.
There has been so much GOOD NEWS to celebrate coming from this crisis. Therefore, we want to share seven of our favorite stories with you today!
Disney Parks And Resorts Donated Supplies To Charity
When the parks first announced that they were closing temporarily, questions were raised as to what exactly Disney was planning on doing with ALL that food! Disney Parks and Resorts across the nation truly stepped up and sent the food to where it was needed most.
Disney World And Disneyland Donated Surplus Food To Second Harvest
Second Harvest is one of the largest food banks in the nation, and one that Disney partners with regularly. When Disney realized the amount of food they needed to re-allocate, Cast Members turned to Second Harvest and decided to make a few donations. Items donated included salads as well as hot items. Within a matter of days, the food was arriving at Second Harvest, where it was then distributed to families in need.
Similarly, Disneyland turned to Second Harvest of Orange County to donate their surplus of food throughout the parks and resorts.
Read more about Disney Parks’ donation to Second Harvest here!
Aulani Resort And Spa Donated Food To Aloha Harvest
When Aulani closed on March 24, they too had a sudden surplus of food to re-distribute. In the first week of their closure alone, Aulani was able to donate 7,000 pounds of perishable foods to the food bank Aloha Harvest. The food was then distributed to areas that need the food the most.
Read more about Aulani’s donations to Aloha Harvest here!
Disney Parks Donated Supplies To Hospitals And Medical Professionals
In addition to helping vulnerable populations during this time, Disney has also stepped up when it comes to assisting the men and women working on the front lines to keep us safe and healthy! Over the course of the past few weeks, Disney Parks have been able to donate 100,000 N95 masks to hospitals in New York, Florida, and California!
In addition, Disney donated 150,000 rain ponchos to MedShare. They were then distributed to hospitals in need of supplies across the country. The rain ponchos help hospitals in that they add extra protection to nurse’s and doctor’s clothing, and even free up spare hospital gowns in facilities that are currently in low supply.
Read more about how Disney has helped medical professionals here!
Disney Donated Easter Lilies To Local Senior Citizens
We learned of a super heartwarming act of kindness and generosity from Disney last week! Over the Easter holiday, Disney donated 200 lilies to senior citizens in the Orlando area! The flowers were brought to the Osceola Council on Aging as well as their Meals on Wheels program!
Learn more about how Disney gave back to their community over the Easter holiday here!
Disney Donated Snacks To The Orlando Police Department
Another group Disney has reached out to during this time is the local police department. When the Orlando Police Department posted a heartfelt “Thank you” on social media, we learned that it was in response to Disney’s generous donation of pre-packaged snacks! These yummy treats include Selma’s Cookies, flavored Main Street Popcorn, and Rice Krispie treats.
Read the story & watch the Police Department’s video message here!
Jaleo Donated Food To Orlando Families
Our final story we want to share with you today came out of Disney Springs! Chef José Andrés and his team at Jaleo stepped up in a big way when they donated 400 free meals to local Orlando families in need!
In addition to this act, Chef Andrés has done incredible work around the country. His non-profit organization World Central Kitchen has continuously stepped up in times of need, currently providing over 150,000 meals DAILY across the nation.
Read up on Chef José Andrés’ work here!
Disney Is Bringing Magic Into Our Homes Daily
In addition to helping those most in need, Disney is making a huge difference in everyday lives as well. Performers are sharing their talents through Disney by reading bedtime stories and performing live. Disney also has lots of free online educational content for young learners attending school from home.
See our full list of Disney performers available for you to check out online! We update this post frequently!
In ways both large and small, Disney has really stepped up over these past few weeks. While there are many things in the world to worry about, Disney has also recognized this rare opportunity to perform acts of kindness and generosity in their local communities. Feeling a little inspired yourself? You don’t have to be a large corporation like Disney to make a difference! There are many ways everyday folks like us can have an impact.
Looking to make a difference in your community? Learn how you can help front-line workers here!
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What has been your FAVORITE good news story in the past few weeks that you’ve seen? Share with us in the comments!
Jan says
Thank you for bringing a little Disney magic to us. We know all will be well soon and we will get back to enjoying the fabulous DVC resorts.!
Joan Neil says
These are all great stories of how Disney is helping communities and helping to brighten the lives of some of the less fortunate, in these dark days. Thank you Disney for all your help.
joan neil says
Great stories of Disney giving back. Everyone is waiting for the day the parks open again. Most magical place on earth.
Craig says
JR has been giving us a tour of Animal Kingdom on his insta. Get around it! It’s been a great read.