Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley announced Tuesday that the Knapp Community Care Foundation (KCCF) has committed a $500,000 gift to establish the Mid-Valley Pediatric Assistance Endowment, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar for a total of $1 million.

The endowment will provide vital financial assistance to pediatric patients and their families from the Mid-Valley region, helping to cover travel, lodging, and pharmaceutical costs related to care at Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley.

“This extraordinary gift ensures that families in the Mid-Valley region will have access to the resources they need when their children require specialized care,” said Matthew Wolthoff, President of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley. “The Knapp Community Care Foundation’s vision aligns with our mission of making world-class pediatric care more accessible to every child, regardless of circumstance.”

Cristina Trejo-Vasquez, CEO of the Knapp Community Care Foundation, said the decision reflects KCCF’s commitment to addressing barriers to care. “This support extends beyond medical care by addressing the significant challenges families face when a child is ill. Through this partnership with Driscoll, KCCF is advancing its mission to advocate for and improve the health and well-being of children in the Mid-Valley.”

“This is a proud day for all of us, and one that underscores the importance of collaboration, vision, and generosity,” said Laura Warren, Driscoll Children’s Hospital Development Foundation Board Member. “This is not just a gift to Driscoll—it’s a gift to every child, and every family who will walk through our doors in search of hope and healing.”

The announcement comes just over a year after the opening of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, the region’s first freestanding, designated children’s hospital.