Sensory Toy Drive to benefit ABC Pediatric Therapy

At UpLift, we are thrilled to continue our commitment to giving back through our own chapter of The Kindness Project! Originally launched in 2018, this initiative has allowed us to spread kindness in countless ways—whether it’s buying groceries, hosting toy drives, or providing supplies to flood victims. With a focus on helping local families in need, we’re proud to take part in making a difference in our community.

This year, UpLift Dispensaries partnered with the EmPath for Autism Foundation and ABC Pediatric Therapy for a meaningful cause: a Sensory Toy Drive. Our goal was simple—to collect sensory toys for children who are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Sensory toys are designed to stimulate a child’s senses of sight, sound, and touch, providing valuable therapeutic benefits. These toys play an essential role in supporting the sensory systems of children with Autism, helping them improve focus, calmness, and communication.

Our partnership with EmPath for Autism Foundation has been incredibly special. EmPath, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was created to support children and families affected by Autism. We’re also excited to sponsor their annual fundraiser, Circus Bizircus Lunar, which took place on September 21st in Covington, KY. The proceeds from this event benefitted the Kelly O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital—an incredible cause that we’re honored to support.

ABC Pediatric Therapy, a fantastic therapy center located in Cincinnati’s Western Hills, was instrumental in ensuring that the sensory toys we collected made it to the children who needed them most. ABC offers a range of pediatric therapies in a child-friendly setting, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Their dedication to creating the best life for all children aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting families and improving quality of life.

Over the course of two weeks, we hosted collection points at our UpLift Dispensaries locations, and thanks to the help of our team, customers, and supporters, we were able to gather a substantial amount of sensory toys. At the end of the drive, the Williams family personally delivered an entire SUV-load of toys to ABC Pediatric Therapy for distribution to local families in need.

At UpLift Dispensaries, we’re proud to work alongside the EmPath for Autism Foundation and ABC Pediatric Therapy to bring awareness to the importance of sensory toys, therapy, and the potential role of cannabis in supporting children with Autism. We are committed to making a positive impact on our community and are honored to be part of The Kindness Project. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful cause, and we look forward to continuing to spread kindness together.