$85K Raised During Children’s Week to Support Patients and Families

The seventh annual Penn State Health Children’s Week, a fundraising campaign to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network’s Patient Assistance Endowment at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, ran from April 7 – 13 and raised a total of $85,000.

“Amid the chaos of hospitalizations and medical emergencies, many families are not only grappling with their children’s health challenges but also struggling to meet basic needs,” said Katie Anderson, director of Children’s Miracle Network at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. “Whether it’s securing reliable transportation to the hospital or covering the cost of essential medications and supplies, the financial strain can add to the stress. In these vulnerable moments, CMN provides crucial support, allowing families to focus on what matters most—their child’s health.” 

This year’s total will help more than 175 families. Anderson said, “The Patient Assistance Endowment offers vital support to families in crisis. Even a $20 donation during Children’s Week can ease a burden and remind families they’re not alone. Whether it’s a warm meal after a sleepless night or a car seat for safe travel, these aren’t luxuries—they’re lifelines.”

Sponsors of the event include Ace Hardware, The GIANT Company, Heritage Toyota Harrisburg, Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, Woodstream and Cumulus Media. 

Jennifer Kupko understands the impact of the Patient Assistance Endowment and the generosity of its donors. Her son, Gannon, was born prematurely with brittle bones and faced numerous medical challenges. When Gannon was learning to run, he fell and broke his femur, requiring a leg and hip cast that would not fit in his car seat. The family faced a major challenge—how to get him home safely and comfortably without relying on an ambulance for the nearly hour-long trip. That’s when the endowment provided a specialized car restraint, allowing them to take Gannon home. Anderson said, “In the midst of his extended hospital stay, mounting medical bills and emotional strain, this gesture of support meant everything to the Kupko family. That’s the impact that a gift to the Patient Assistance Endowment can have.”