“It is anything that has to do with getting that child healthy,” said Camille Levee, the nonprofit’s executive director. “We fill the gap so the kids get the care they need.”
Like many charities and businesses throughout the valley and across the nation, Glendale Healthy Kids has seen a roughly 20% drop in net assets this year from last.
“This Thanksgiving, we are thankful we have not had to turn one child away,” Levee said. “We have a very generous community and many individuals who want us to succeed, even if its a small contribution, $25 pays a co-pay for medication for a child.”
The nonprofit, which receives no government assistance, sees between 300 and 500 families a year, Levee said. That number has increased as more people lose jobs and health care.
Maria Trejo continues to rely on Glendale Healthy Kids, which assisted with dental care for her eighth-grade son and glasses for her 11th-grade daughter.
“I have no words to explain how they helped me,” she said.
After Trejo’s insurance was canceled two years ago, she had nowhere to turn, she said.
“Somebody told me you can go to [Glendale Healthy Kids] and ask if maybe they have help for you,” Trejo said. “I ran and asked a lady, they told me they want to help me. They were beautiful.”
The nonprofit is neither health clinic nor an insurance provider, Levee said.
“We do not accept children until the time that there is a medical, dental or mental health need,” she said. “It’s ‘Hey, my child has an eye infection, I don’t know what to do.’ ”
Trejo’s daughter broke into a rash about one month ago, but was able to get it treated through Glendale Healthy Kids, she said.
“I can live now knowing they are there for me to help any time I need it,” Trejo said.
