Since 1998, TLC for Kids has provided relief and much-needed distraction for sick children and their families during stressful and traumatic situations. In hospitals across Australia, the services of TLC for Kids have been utilised over 16.2 million times and almost 1 million times per year. 

Their Digital Distraction App, Tap 2 Distract, is also helping to expand their reach across Australia and beyond.

Upon referral from Healthcare Professionals, TLC for Kids provides individualised practical and emotional support, connecting children and families with much needed relief both in and out of hospital, when it’s needed the most. Whether it’s a one-off hospital visit or a prolonged struggle with illness, TLC for Kids is part of an extended support network for sick children, providing collaborative care and emergency relief. TLC for Kids believe little things make a big difference. 

Two core programs include:

• The Distraction Box Program which is designed to give nurses and healthcare professionals the perfect tools to guide young children through painful medical examinations and procedures. The box contains items that engage the attention of the child and comply with hospital infection control protocols, diverting their attention away from the procedure. These items can include selected toys and books. There have been over 874,759 uses of the TLC for Kids distraction boxes in medical rooms each year and 2,316 distraction boxes distributed around Australia.  

• The TLC Ambulance program delivers special moments to sick children in palliative care, transporting them to their most treasured places to experience that joy one last time. Volunteer paramedics will drive a fun, repurposed ambulance to transport the child, and the family will receive a commemorative photo and video package. There have been 405 hospitals working with children who are using TLC for kids' services.  

The $11,000 funds will assist TLC to continue these programs and distribute more distraction boxes and ambulance services to those in need.