Support kids with disabilities like Gabriella because every child deserves friendship.

8 year-old Gabriella, who has cerebral palsy, spent 3 years at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital — learning, playing, and participating in group activities and field trips. Many children with disabilities struggle to make friends and experience social exclusion, that's why Gabriella's occupational therapist and her mom helped her learn to advocate for herself and explain her special needs when others ask questions.

In Canada, there are more than 400,000 children and youth like Gabriella living with a disability. These young people often face the effects of disability stigma, which includes social exclusion. In fact, 53% of children with a disability have zero or only one close friend.

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation is committed to creating a world of possibilities for kids with disabilities. We provide specialized programs and clinical care for children and youth with rehabilitation and complex care needs to enable them to participate in life to the fullest, which includes forging meaningful friendships.

Sign and support Holland Bloorview's work to help children with disability. Together we can create a more inclusive society where everybody belongs.