Linden Student Launches Card-Making Program for Hospitalized Kids

Linden student Roxy Yataco Lopez has launched a local chapter of Cards for Hospitalized Kids at the Linden Public Library, bringing together local teens to create handmade cards for hospitalized children in the community.

The program meets every Friday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., welcoming teens ages 13-18. Participants create general encouragement cards and holiday cards for hospitalized children. Registration is required on the Library's events calendar, and students can earn volunteer service hours for attending the events.

While many Cards for Hospitalized Kids chapters are created within schools, Yataco Lopez saw an opportunity to bring the program to the broader community.

"I saw a huge need — a place where students could connect, be creative and make a difference without having to commit every week," Yataco Lopez said. "I wanted it to be something bigger than just my school and something the whole community could take part in."

The program was developed in partnership with the Linden Free Public Library, whose support helped bring Yataco Lopez's vision to life.

Library Director Joshua Melissari said, "We have been so pleased to see students come together each week, not only to create these cards, but to build connections with one another."

Union County Life has been covering student leadership and community service initiatives across Union County, and Yataco Lopez's program exemplifies the kind of youth-driven civic engagement that strengthens local neighborhoods.

Yataco Lopez expressed her enthusiasm for the program's impact. "Every week, I get to see new volunteers connect with each other while making an impact. That is what makes this chapter so special to me."

Teens interested in volunteering can register through the Linden Public Library's events calendar. The program continues every Friday throughout the year.

FAQ

What is Cards for Hospitalized Kids?
Cards for Hospitalized Kids is a volunteer program where teens create handmade greeting cards, encouragement cards, and holiday cards for children who are hospitalized. The cards are sent to hospitals to brighten the days of young patients.

How often does the Linden chapter meet?
The Linden chapter meets every Friday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Linden Public Library. There is no requirement to attend every week — participants can join when their schedule allows.

Who can participate in the Linden program?
Teens ages 13–18 are welcome to participate in the card-making sessions.

How do I register?
Registration is required and available on the Linden Public Library's events calendar. Interested teens should check the library's website or contact the library for registration details.

Can I earn volunteer service hours?
Yes. Students who attend the card-making sessions can earn volunteer service hours, which can be used for school service requirements or personal volunteer portfolios.

Why did Roxy Yataco Lopez start this program?
Yataco Lopez saw an opportunity to create a community-based volunteer program where teens could connect, be creative, and make a difference without having to commit to a rigid weekly schedule. She wanted the program to be open to the entire Linden community, not just her school.

Why does the Linden Public Library support this program?
Library Director Joshua Melissari expressed that the library is pleased to see students come together not only to create cards but to build connections with one another. The library partnership helps make Yataco Lopez's community vision possible.