Raising awareness and support for hygiene insecurity.

About our Founder

Helping Hands Heal Families was founded by Gracie Hicks in 2015, inspired by a personal experience that opened her eyes to a need most people don’t think about—until it becomes their reality.

Gracie was severely injured in a horse accident that left her with a broken arm requiring emergency surgery. The injury caused paralysis, and everything happened so fast that her family barely had time to think—let alone pack a hospital bag. They arrived at the hospital with nothing but the clothes they were wearing.

In the aftermath of surgery, Gracie remembers being consumed by the pain and shock of her injury—but what stood out most in those quiet moments of recovery was something much smaller: the feeling of cracked, dry lips and no chapstick to soothe them. Compared to everything else she was facing, it may have seemed insignificant—but it was a discomfort that felt overwhelming in that moment.

Relief finally came when a family member returned to the hospital with a small care package—including chapstick. That simple act of kindness brought Gracie to tears. It was a reminder of comfort, dignity, and being cared for when she felt most vulnerable.

During her long recovery, Gracie couldn’t stop thinking about that moment. She realized there must be countless others sitting in hospital rooms—injured, scared, or worried about a loved one—without access to basic necessities. She searched for organizations focused on this issue and quickly discovered there were few, if any, charities dedicated solely to hygiene insecurity.

From that realization, Helping Hands Heal Families was born. What started as one care package has grown into a mission-driven nonprofit working to restore dignity and comfort to those in crisis.

Gracie Hicks

Meet Our Board of Directors

Medical Advisor

Dr. John R. Hicks, Gracie's father, is the medical advisor and practices cardiology in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, at Veritas Cardiovascular.

William L. Hicks, D.O., Gracie's brother, serves as treasurer and is completing his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Central Flordia in Orlando.

Dr. John R. Hicks M.D.

Treasurer

William L. Hicks D.O.

John Suther, board member and shipping coordinator, works at Total Quality Logistics, where he specializes in coordinating and transporting products.

John W. Suther

Shipping Coordinator

Angelo D. Monaco

Board Member & Outreach Liaison

Angelo D. Monaco , a board member and outreach liaison, is a senior at the University of Scranton and intends to pursue a career in medicine.