St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children in Bayside hosted its first-ever Summer Luau celebration on Aug. 17. The family-friendly event included face painting, music, arts and crafts, a limbo competition and luau-themed games.

All funds raised will be used to support vital programs and services at the hospital, the only provider of pediatric long-term and rehabilitative care in the region. Proceeds will help St. Mary’s continue to provide high-quality care to children with complex medical issues — regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

Clockwise from right, Kayla puts on her Mickey Mouse ears and enjoys the festivities; Benny has his face painted; and two other kids, who aren’t patients but special guests, join in the event, with good spots to relax by the palm trees.

St. Mary’s was founded in Manhattan in 1870.

QueensChronicle.com