What is a candy striper?

A candy striper is a term often used to refer to a volunteer in a hospital setting, typically a young person who wears a uniform with red and white vertical stripes (resembling a candy cane) and helps out with various tasks such as delivering flowers, running errands, and assisting patients and staff. Candy stripers provide comfort and support to patients and help create a more welcoming and friendly environment in the hospital. The term originated in the 1940s and 1950s, when young volunteers in hospitals wore uniforms with red and white stripes. While the term is somewhat outdated and not widely used today, the work of candy stripers continues to be valuable and appreciated in healthcare settings.