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Every child facing a long-term hospitalization and their family experiences challenges beyond medical care. Through the generosity of our supporters and thoughtful, tailored collaboration with our hospital partners, Esther’s Friends helps provide comfort, essential resources, and connection when families need it most.
Since our founding in 2020, more than 5,000 pediatric inpatients throughout Chicagoland have been supported through Esther’s Friends initiatives, helping children and families navigate the emotional, practical, and financial challenges that often accompany extended hospital stays.
From the Families We Serve:
Behind every resource is a child and family navigating an uncertain time. A parking pass can help a parent stay close. A comfort kit can bring distraction and joy. A meal voucher can ease a burden. A thoughtful gesture can remind a family they are not alone.
"It really is the little things that make a big difference. The comfort care kits do just that- provide comfort during the most difficult times.”
"The parking pass…allowed [our] family to spend precious moments with her until her final moments. She never had a moment without a parent by her side."
"We received a comfort care kit and that was the first time I saw her smile. She will not even walk the halls without gripping that bag. Look - she is actually playing! She gets to just be a kid again.”
"This is such a great idea. You never realize how important having stuff like this is until you have a kid in the hospital. We were not expecting to be here this long, and these items have been so helpful.’”
From our Hospital Partners:
Our pediatric hospital partners see firsthand how small acts of support can make a meaningful difference for children and families.
“Esther’s Friends' generosity provides essential practical support to both children and their families, helping them to navigate the many challenges that families face while their child receives treatment."
"I brought in the parking pass and mom started crying and said she was so grateful for this help during this overwhelming time. They are deeply grateful because the parking pass helps them stay together during this time of need.”
"Many of these children live at a lower standard of living. Esther's Friends Comfort Care Kits have been absolutely critical in meeting the developmental needs of our long-term infant and toddler patients. Patients, parents, and staff all love the kits that help kids stay calm, happy, and regulated.”
"As a department without a budget, these are all items that make such a difference for our patients that we couldn't otherwise afford."
Friendship Makes a Difference
Every gift, every partnership, and every resource provided through Esther’s Friends helps extend Esther’s spirit of friendship to children and families facing long-term hospitalizations.
Every child and family we serve becomes one of Esther’s friends.
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