Meaningful Mother’s Day gifts and donations to honor mom and start a Tradition of Hope

Mother’s Day is an annual holiday that celebrates the mother figures in our lives. In the early 1900s, social activist Anna Jarvis established the practice in honor of her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, and other mothers like her. During her lifetime, Ann worked diligently to promote health and friendship among the women in her community.

In modern times, the celebration has expanded to include all those who have encompassed a mothering role, such as grandmothers, aunts, godmothers, mothers-in-law and more.

Next Mother's Day falls on May 10, 2026.

In the United States, Mother’s Day is an annual celebration held on the second Sunday in May. The first Mother’s Day was held in May of 1907 and seven years later became a national holiday celebrated every May. While many countries outside the U.S. celebrate Mother’s Day in May, it varies from country to country. 

The best message to write in a Mother’s Day card is one that’s from the heart. It may be helpful to think about how your mom has helped and supported you in the past and specifically say thank you for those things. Another option is to search for example messages online and rewrite them to match the special characteristics of your mom. 

Making a donation for Mother’s Day is a special way to help support St. Jude families and our commitment to providing children with quality cancer care and treatment every day.