Grants from CHA support programs across the health care system, from child life in the emergency department to mental health services for vulnerable children
Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) has supported growth for innovative pediatric care at Children’s Minnesota for almost 90 years. In 2021, CHA is continuing that legacy of support, announcing $447,950 in grants across 12 programs.
Five of these programs support community-based health care initiatives, including the Runaway Intervention Program within the Midwest Children’s Resource Center (MCRC). CHA’S Mental Health Special Needs Fund expands Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, which teaches parents traditional play-therapy skills to reinforce positive child behavior and traditional behavior management skills. Other programs, such as child life in the emergency department and Star Studio, expand wrap-around services to support children’s and families’ lives during care.
“As we address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are incredibly grateful for the generous support of Children’s Hospital Association and its volunteers,” said Jennifer Soderholm, Children’s Minnesota Foundation president and chief development officer. “These grants support vital and unique programs that make a difference in the lives of our patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay for care.
CHA Executive Director Erin Bursch said during a year upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, CHA supporters knew generosity and giving were not canceled. “Whether it’s helping pay for a child’s car seat so a baby can get home safely or soothing a toddler through music therapy before treatment, CHA is making a difference with Children’s Minnesota one child at a time.”
Funding Distribution
| Program | Funds |
| Audiology – Improving Amplification Access and Family Education | $10,000 |
| Children’s Cancer Survivor Program | $20,000 |
| Child Life in the Emergency Department | $35,000 |
| Community Connect | $65,000 |
| Complex Cardiac Disease Caregiver Simulation | $21,000 |
| First Steps | $14,000 |
| Midwest Children’s Resource Center | $70,000 |
| Mental Health Special Needs Fund | $35,000 |
| Music Therapy Program | $50,000 |
| Runaway Intervention Program | $28,000 |
| Star Studio | $50,000 |
| The Unreimbursed and Undercompensated Care Program | $49,950 |
Interested in getting involved with Children’s Hospital Association?
To get involved with CHA and join a family of more than 2,000 volunteers, visit cha-stpaul.org.
Nick Petersen