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Melania Trump Marks Valentine’s Day with Families at NIH Children’s Inn

First Lady Melania Trump delivers remarks at the 19th International Women of Courage Awards Ceremony, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks)

First Lady Melania Trump spent part of Valentine’s week bringing smiles to children and families at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland.

Mrs. Trump joined young patients, their families, and NIH staff on Wednesday afternoon for a Valentine’s celebration that included making handmade cards and participating in arts and crafts activities.

The Children’s Inn provides a free “Place Like Home” for families whose children, teens, and young adults are participating in clinical research studies at the NIH. The nonprofit residence supports families during what are often some of the most difficult periods of their lives, while the NIH Clinical Center — the nation’s premier biomedical research hospital — advances cutting-edge medical discoveries.

This visit continues a tradition for Mrs. Trump, who also marked Valentine’s Day at The Children’s Inn in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Her return this year highlights an ongoing focus on encouraging children and supporting families navigating serious health challenges.

The First Lady was joined by NIH Director Dr. Jayanta Bhattacharya, Children’s Inn CEO Jennie Lucca, and Board Vice Chair Dr. Scott Royal, along with patients and their families.

As Americans celebrate Valentine’s Day, the First Lady’s visit served as a reminder that compassion, service, and community remain at the heart of the holiday.