Family Support Programs
At OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois, we’re here for you and your family every step of the way. Our family support programs are designed to make sure you feel supported, informed and cared for during your child's treatment journey and beyond.
The Organization for Understanding Congenital Hearts (T.O.U.C.H)
T.O.U.C.H. connects you with other families who know what you’re going through. This group brings parents together to share advice, support and encouragement.
Here are some of the ways you can get connected:
- Annual fall picnic: A fun way to meet other families, share experiences, and build friendships
- Heartline program: One-on-one connections with another parent who has been through a similar journey
- Parents’ survival kit: A resource pack with helpful tools to guide you through your child’s care
- TOUCH Symposium: Annual conference for families
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Family House
Family House is your home away from home when your child is in the hospital. With hotel-like rooms and shared spaces for meals and conversation, you can find comfort and support from other families going through similar challenges.
Ronald McDonald House
The Ronald McDonald House offers a warm, supportive place to stay while your child is being treated. You’ll be close to the hospital and surrounded by a caring community and a network of families facing similar challenges.
Social Work Support
Our full-time social work support team is dedicated to helping your family manage the complex aspects of your child’s care.
We’re ready to assist you with a variety of needs:
- Emotional support for you and your family
- Guidance on planning for future medical needs
- Help finding financial resources
Child Life Services
Child life services are designed to reduce the stress and anxiety that your family experiences during hospital visits and treatments.
Our certified child life specialists help:
- Prepare your child for what to expect during their visit
- Support siblings so everyone feels included and cared for
- Use play to teach your child about medical procedures and make them feel more at ease
Beads of Courage
The Beads of Courage program is a creative and empowering way for your child to record, own and tell their treatment stories. Each bead represents a milestone in their journey, celebrating their strength and bravery.