Chip and Joanna Gaines Build a Playhouse for St. Jude’s Hospital—Here’s a Peek Inside

As if Chip and Joanna Gaines didn’t have enough on their plates, the “Fixer Upper” alums recently managed to squeeze in one more very important project.

Along with Target, Chip and Joanna appeared in Memphis, Tennessee to celebrate children currently undergoing treatment at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. But the duo didn’t leave without a few big surprises of their own, including a permanent playhouse the couple designed themselves, as well as a $1.5 million donation that was raised during the #chipinchallenge. 

Wearing bumblebee headbands, Chip and Joanna sat and read to the children from their new book, “We Are the Gardeners.” It was an appropriate topic, considering the Gaineses’ gifted the facility with a garden-inspired permanent playhouse. The house, which had touches of black metal and garden flower details, had a classic “Fixer Upper” trademark too: white shiplap siding.

Clearly, the experience was an extremely powerful one for the couple. Chip shared with the crowd his experience meeting one little boy receiving treatment at St. Jude’s, who managed to use a little “Fixer Upper” lingo when talking about battling his cancer diagnosis. 

“As we walked in today, a little boy told us that he’s ‘demo day-ing’ his cancer treatment and that’s pretty much the best thing I’ve ever heard,” said Chip. “In our world, demo day marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of a newer, more exciting one. And that’s exactly what we want for you—we’re pulling for each and every one of you.”

On Instagram, Joanna posted a photo of herself and Chip in front of the famed research hospital, and shared how special the experience was. 

“Today we’re leaving @StJude feeling changed forever. The beautiful kids and families here carry such strength and hope, and we were honored to spend the day with them. Thank you @target for throwing the best garden party and for all you do for the families who stay at the Target House. And thank you once again to everyone who helped #ChipIn to support the children at St. Jude,” she wrote. 

This isn’t the first time Chip and Joanna have teamed up with Target and St. Jude’s. Back in 2017, the couple made over the dining room at Target House, the long-term housing facility where families stay free while their kids undergo treatment at St. Jude’s.