Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) has partnered with the Hidden Helpers Coalition to respond to the unique challenges experienced by young people who serve as caregivers to wounded, ill, or injured veterans and service members. Made up of 100 organizations, the Coalition seeks to enhance support services available to children who care for a parent or loved one at home.
These children’s needs are often overshadowed by their caregiving responsibilities, which can inhibit their development and have mental health consequences. Fears of stigma and being misunderstood by friends, family, and the larger community can engender feelings of isolation for children and caregivers.
Coalition member Nemours Children’s Health has taken action to fill gaps in support and services for military caregiver kids and youth.
“In 2021, Nemours Children’s Health joined the Hidden Helpers Coalition to help increase public awareness and improve health care for children who serve on the front lines at home,” said R. Lawrence Moss, MD, Nemours president and CEO and member of the CHA Board of Trustees.
“We partnered with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to create a free online training program for health care providers, promoting better care strategies for children and teens living with a wounded, ill, or injured service member or veteran. We encourage CHA member hospitals to join us in this extraordinary effort to create a healthier future for our country’s military children and families.”
Learn more about the Hidden Helpers Coalition.
