Back to School 2025

Back to school season  has long been a busy time at Friends of Karen. For weeks staff members and volunteers have been tirelessly working to fulfill school supply lists for our Friends of Karen children and their siblings.  It is all well worth it when we receive photos of the adorable children smiling ear to ear with the wonderful backpacks…

Just Like the Moon

Friends of Karen Mom Explains Sickle Cell Disease in her new Children’s Book, Just Like the Moon. Looking for resources to support her daughter, Alessia who was diagnosed with SCD, Maite Rodriguez dreamed of writing a children’s book to explain the disease in an engaging and age-appropriate way.

Halloween Fun

For those who celebrate, Halloween is a fun and exciting time for kids. But what do you do when your child is missing out on the fun? Whether staying home is necessary for the immuno-compromised, or an ill child is stuck in the hospital for treatment, this disappointing situation is common for many of our Friends of Karen families.

Thanksgiving Feed a Family​

  Bring a Holiday Meal to a Family Caring for a Critically Ill Child This Thanksgiving, you can make a meaningful difference through Friends of Karen’s Feed-A-Family program. Your donation provides grocery gift cards so families can prepare a holiday meal that’s just right for them. Urgent need: As of Saturday, November 1, one-third of Friends of Karen families have not…

Holiday Sibling Spotlight

Traditions provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Whether it is Grandma’s famous recipe, a favorite holiday song, a blessing or prayer recited by heart or a story passed down through generations.  Rituals bring meaning, nurture connections and give us something to look forward to and hope for.