Starlight Education: Delivering Happiness Through Accessible Learning

For 40 years, Starlight has brought smiles to seriously ill kids by developing fun and accessible entertainment options that offer comfort during their hospital stay. Now, we are excited to offer these kids an even more holistic childhood experience through our newest program – Starlight Education.

The last two years have been challenging for all children, as schools across the nation have adapted and shifted to online learning options. Sadly, this kind of life-changing disruption is not new for hospitalized kids. From unexpected injuries to ongoing treatment for severe illnesses, even a brief hospitalization can cause a child to miss school, impacting their overall mental health and educational development.

This impact is even greater for hospitalized kids in vulnerable and medically underserved populations. 62% of Starlight’s partner hospitals provide care in high-poverty areas, which means many of their young patients can't access educational resources beyond what is provided by their school.

On average, US families spend more than $840 per year on a child’s school supplies. While parents worry about their child’s illness causing missed social interactions and learning opportunities at school, they also carry a significant financial burden. From the increasingly high costs of food, gas, and housing to the overwhelming price tag of hospital care, things like school supplies or tutoring are often not an option.

Every kid deserves the opportunity to learn, and while we can’t change a child’s diagnosis or situation, we can provide the tools and resources to help them through their challenges. But we need donors like you to do this important work. 

Just $18 can provide a child with one month of virtual learning with online STEAM coaching. Donate $18 or more today to help Starlight deliver happiness through education to millions of kids across the United States!