Share the Love This Valentine’s Day: How You Can Support HeartKids on Sweetheart Day

Valentine’s Day often gets a bad rap for being overly commercialised. Between overpriced roses and crowded restaurant reservations, it’s easy to forget what the day is really about: love.

But what if you could flip the script and make it about something truly meaningful this year?

HeartKids, an incredible Australian charity providing support to children and families impacted by childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD), including congenital and acquired conditions, is encouraging the community to join their annual Sweethearts for HeartKids campaign to raise awareness and funds for children, teens, adults and their families navigating childhood-onset heart disease.

Here’s why Sweethearts for HeartKids should be on your radar—and how turning Valentine’s Day into a celebration of kindness can make a lasting difference for families needing it most.

A Cause Close to the Heart

Did you know that every day, eight Australian babies are born with congenital heart disease? For these children and their families, this can mean a lifetime of medical appointments, surgeries, and constant uncertainty.

Enter HeartKids, a lifeline for people navigating the challenges of childhood-onset heart disease. They provide lifelong support, advocacy, and resources, empowering individuals and families to live their best lives. 

But they can’t do it without us. Sweethearts for HeartKids, held throughout January until the 14th of February (Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day), Sweetheart Day invites us to get involved, show some love, and make a real impact.

How You Can Help

Want to get involved? The beauty of Sweethearts for HeartKids is that it’s so easy to be part of. Whether you’ve got a packed Valentine’s schedule or prefer a low-key day at home, there’s a way for everyone to contribute. 

Make a Donation

The simplest way to support Sweetheart Day is to donate directly to HeartKids. Think of it as the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift—one that goes beyond chocolates and flowers. Head to their website to make a contribution that could change lives.

Shop Sweethearts 

Shop the Sweethearts for HeartKids merch, including jewellery and shirts, or support our Shop Sweethearts partners whose sales contribute to helping children and families impacted by childhood-onset heart disease. Every purchase makes a difference!

Spread the Word

Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness. Post about Sweetheart Day using #SweetheartDay on social media, share why the cause matters to you, and encourage others to get involved. It’s a small effort that can create big ripples.

Host a Fundraiser

If you’re feeling inspired, why not host a Sweetheart Day event? Whether it’s a morning tea at work, a bake sale with friends, or a simple donation drive, HeartKids provides all the resources you need to make it a success.

What Your Support Means

It’s easy to feel like individual contributions don’t make a difference—but in the case of HeartKids, every dollar counts. Here’s what your support looks like when actioned —

$3 a day provides a food voucher to support parents during hospital stays.

$60 supplies an emergency care bag filled with essential items for families in hospital.

$250 offers vital emergency support, including groceries, accommodation, and other essentials during times of hardship.

$500 provides financial assistance for bereavement to support families at their most vulnerable.

These aren’t just numbers—they’re lifelines for families navigating one of the toughest challenges imaginable.

Whether you make a donation, host a dedicated Valentine’s Day event, or simply share the message online, your actions can help create a world where every child with a heart condition gets the care and support they deserve.

So this Valentine’s Day, let’s redefine what it means to give your heart. Visit heartkids.org.au to learn more, donate, and make this year’s Sweetheart Day part of your love story.