By Rose S. Prinzi

Many of us probably take for granted the routine wellness visits our children make to local doctors’ offices.  Whether it is a teeth cleaning, eye examination, or an annual physical, checkups are essential to maintaining good health.  However, some families, in our community, suffer financial hardships and, as a result, are unable to provide basic medical care for their children.

Furthermore, there are children in our community who receive routine care but may need more extensive medical attention, such as braces, glasses/contact lenses, ear related, or cosmetic type procedures.  When families in our area do not have the money and/or insurance to pay for these expenses, where can they go? 

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation has a fund specifically designed to assist in the basic yet overwhelming medical needs of children from families that may not be able to afford them.  The “Help for Kids Fund” is designed to assist children with medical needs.  Specifically, this Fund has been created to assist youth, up to 18 years of age, with small-scale medical expenses due to financial hardship or lack of insurance coverage.

An example of a request the Foundation received was from a Chautauqua County agency on behalf of a foster child.  This child had very unique medical needs.  If the foster child had not received the level of care provided by the “Help for Kids Fund” he would not have been able to remain in the loving home of his current foster family.
Most of the requests for the “Help for Kids Fund” are not so dramatic or life changing, but families in need should be aware that financial assistance is available in our community.

The “Help For Kids Fund” is an endowment fund established by an anonymous donor who has a special interest in the well being of children.  This fund is a part of a grouping of endowment funds known as Filed of Interest Funds.  It is the responsibility of the Community Foundation to match a specific charitable need with a donor’s special interest. 

The”Help For Kids Fund” is just another way in which the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation is enriching the Quality of Life in the Chautauqua Region - one child, one organization at a time.  

If you are interested in learning more about the “Help for Kids Fund,” contact the Foundation staff at 661-3390.