News & Stories

Hunger is a health issue: how 3 local solutions are feeding hope

In Southeast Michigan, 1 in 8 children faces hunger—but local partnerships are making a difference. Through grants to Hospitality House, Forgotten Harvest, and United Community Family Services, the Children’s Foundation is helping kids access nutritious, culturally familiar meals and the stability they need to thrive.

Donor Highlight: Marilyn Bartley’s legacy of generosity

For nearly a decade, volunteer leader and donor Marilyn Bartley has turned compassion into action through the Children’s Foundation. Her generosity and leadership—continue to create lasting impact for Michigan’s kids and families.

Parents as Teachers: Supporting families, shaping children’s youngest years

The Children’s Foundation is supporting programs like Parents as Teachers that equip Michigan families to nurture children’s health, growth, and potential.

Root of the Issue Podcast: A Healthy Future Starts in Childhood featuring Larry Burns

Elijah Williams, two years old, happily gave Reem Siddiqui a hug and high-five after receiving treatment for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) at Children’s Hospital of Michigan (CHM).

A letter from Larry – November 2022

I also want to welcome the incoming President & CEO of The Children’s Foundation Mr. Andrew Stein. Andrew has started his journey with The Foundation and will work with me side-by-side throughout the rest of this calendar year

AARC: Outpatient recovery center to support youth battling substance use disorder

AARC will specialize in treating severe cases of substance use disorder and dangerous substance use including opioids (heroin, fentanyl, prescription opioids), benzodiazepines, alcohol, etc. The AARC is currently scheduling intakes for those under 18 years old.

Spirit of Children raises funds to ensure hospitalized kids feel safe and supported

Hospitalized children who might otherwise miss the treat of celebrating Halloween attended a special, not-so-spooky party enabled by Spirit of Children, the philanthropic arm of Spirit Halloween stores.

Foundation announces Andrew Stein as next President & Chief Executive Officer

The Board of Trustees of The Children’s Foundation announces it has named Andrew Stein as the Foundation’s next president and chief executive officer.

Detroit Philanthropic Youth Council: Empowering young philanthropists

Young Detroiters are passionate about creating change in their community. They are visionary, resilient, and driven. However, they often lack access to the resources and guidance necessary to turn their charitable objectives into reality.

Children’s Foundation provides grant support and relief throughout COVID-19 pandemic

Emergency funding for key safety net organizations has helped their immediate ability to serve families enduring economic hardships and support sustainability of these organizations.

A letter from Larry – October 2022

Fall season brings many fun activities to The Children’s Foundation, all which help raise funds for many of our ongoing initiatives and several new ones as well.

The Children’s Foundation partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids continues to grow

A Johns Hopkins study published in January 2022 reveals that “children facing relational and social risks are more likely to have mental, emotional, or behavioral health problems, but the negative impact of these problems on child resilience, self-regulation and school engagement can be offset by protective factors, such as strong caretaker-child connection and family resilience.”

A letter from Larry – September 2022

Before I share with you some exciting news ahead, I wanted to fill you in on a few important highlights from the past weeks.

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