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Mission Impact

You make possible healing milestones and happy memories

Children's Mercy patients dressed up in prom dresses and dancing at the Patient Prom.
Your mission support makes possible special rites of passage like a patient prom for teens in the hospital. This year’s theme was City Lights and KC Nights.


Helping a child heal means so much more than medical treatments and surgeries. Your support of the I Love Children’s Mercy fund not only advances lifesaving care but allows us to celebrate important rites of passage and host events, like a patient prom, in a clinically and emotionally safe environment.

City Lights and KC Nights


This year Children’s Mercy Patient Prom made a joyous comeback in May, as about 120 patients and their guests danced the night away at the Children’s Mercy Research Institute.

So many of our patients can’t go to their own high school prom; maybe it’s because of their diagnosis, or they have a really low immune system, or they don’t feel comfortable with the medical situation they have going on, so we’re providing them a safe space.

Trista Cobbins, MA, CCLS
Manager, Patient and Family Programs

“We try to make it as close to a high school prom as possible. We just want them to have fun and enjoy something that is such a rite of passage for high school students.”

Prom goers prepared for the festivities by donning dresses and tuxedos donated by the community. Volunteers provided on-site alterations and free hair and make-up sessions.

“Without our community partners, we could not host events like prom. The donors, vendors and volunteers who generously give their time, supplies and energy make this wonderful event happen for our patients,” Trista said.

Prom is one of many special initiatives at Children’s Mercy, year-round programs like Child Life, Facility Dogs and Art Therapy— made possible by gifts to the I Love Children’s Mercy Fund. Your generosity brings joy and improved outcomes and give kids the chance to just be kids—even when they are in the hospital.

In appreciation

Your impact is reflected in the appreciation and positive feedback from patients, parents and caregivers following the prom. One parent said, “My daughter couldn’t go to her prom, so this is such a blessing. She has been practicing dance moves all week with her physical therapist!”

I never felt so beautiful. Thank you, Children’s Mercy and to all who made this event possible.

Children's Mercy patient

Made possible by you and gifts to the I Love Children’s Mercy Fund


In fiscal year 2024, your investment in the mission of the hospital ensured every child had access to more leading specialties, more lifesaving innovations and the most compassionate, comprehensive care.

Innovation spotlight: NASA-inspired operations hub optimizes care in first year

Children's Mercy staff in front of multiple screens as they work in the Patient Progression Hub.

The nation’s first pediatric hospital operations center, the Patient Progression Hub, uses artificial intelligence, predictive analytics and real-time information to optimize care progression and coordination. For patients and families, the hub puts access and care coordination first, helping maintain safety, improve outcomes and deliver superior care.

94% decrease in referrals, 86% decrease in delays, and 99% decrease in emergency department boarding.

A commitment to care beyond medicine

 

3,535 car seats, booster seats, or consultations provided by the Center for Childhood Safety. 19,204 families referred to community resources by the Center for Family Community Connections. 351 persons received an asthma or lead home risk assessment or consultation. 2,496 individuals received transportation assistance. 9,104 children received free lunched during the summer at multiple Children’s Mercy locations.

*Statistics as of fiscal year 2024.