Our Story
Partnership for Children began in 2007 as a program of Children’s Hospice and Palliative Care Coalition, rooted in a simple but powerful belief: that every child living with serious illness should have access to the care and emotional support they need to live life as fully as possible.
From the very beginning, we listened closely to families and providers. We heard stories of parents doing everything they could to care for their children while struggling with transportation to medical care, feeling overwhelmed by complex systems, and carrying the emotional weight of serious illness largely on their own.
In response, we stepped in with care and intention. We developed hands-on, family-centered programs that removed barriers and met families where they were — helping children get to the medical care they need while offering parents practical support, emotional relief, and a sense of connection. These early efforts made a real difference, reducing emergency room visits and hospitalizations and easing the day-to-day burden on caregivers.
In 2016, driven by the growing needs of our community, Executive Director Jennifer Ramirez established Partnership for Children as an independent nonprofit organization. Since then, we have continued to grow, expanding our reach and deepening our impact across California’s Central Coast. Today, our transportation and family support programs help children access consistent, compassionate care and remind families that they are not alone on their journey.
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to walk alongside families — providing practical help, meaningful connection, and moments of joy — so children living with serious illness and their families can feel supported, seen, and cared for every step of the way.