Why We Do What We Do
Creating Pathways to Health Equity for All Children
- El Paso Children's Hospital Foundation is an essential partner in bridging the equity gap for children needing hospital services through dedicated philanthropy and sound business management practices.
- Funds raised stay in our region and go directly to building the capacity of El Paso Children's Hospital in acquiring "state-of-the art" equipment and supplies that help improve health outcomes.
- Our philanthropic efforts tap into resources that stimulate economic growth for our regional healthcare in areas of job creation, increasing service line capacity, and health care facility outfitting.
- We partner with the El Paso Children's Hospital and local universities & colleges in creating cutting-edge educational and skills development opportunities for health care professionals that ultimately increase El Paso Children's Hospital's institutional capacity.
- We help keep families close to home as their loved ones receive high-quality care without having to travel outside the area.
- Because a life-threatening diagnosis can quickly lead to poverty, debilitating illness, and an inability to sustain employment, our programs help patients with ancillary services such as transportation, acquiring pharmaceuticals for crucial treatment, and keeping their medical appointments.
- While the region is a thriving major international hub for transportation and commerce, many of our community members have limited or no health insurance.
- Although El Paso is one of the largest cities in Texas, our community has a social vulnerability index score of 0.95, which is greater than the state average of 0.65.
Measuring Impact
El Paso Children's Hospital Foundation's fiduciary integrity and commitment to excellence is demonstrated by its longstanding positive record of independent financial audits. The Foundation measures its success through a battery of performance measures tied to its guiding principles and overall mission.
- People reached
- People served
- Funds raised
- Return on investment
About Our Region
El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation serves one of the most unique and medically underserved regions in the country. The region, spanning a 350-mile radius, includes El Paso County, parts of southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico, collectively known as the Paso del Norte region. This area is home to a diverse and dynamic population with unique healthcare needs, particularly for children.
The Paso del Norte Region
El Paso County is located in the far western corner of Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border. With a population of approximately 868,763 (as of 2022), the county is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state. The city of El Paso, the sixth-largest city in Texas and the 22nd largest in the U.S., has a population of 678,815 and forms the heart of this vibrant community.
The region is part of a binational metropolitan area, the El Paso/Juárez Borderplex, which also includes Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, and southern New Mexico towns such as Las Cruces, Sunland Park, and Anthony. With an estimated population of 2.7 million, this cross-border community reflects a rich cultural heritage and shared economic ties.
El Paso is a predominantly Hispanic community, with 82.9% of residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino, and 69.3% speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity is a key strength but also highlights the importance of culturally competent healthcare services.
A Community Facing Challenges
El Paso County faces significant economic and healthcare disparities:
- Child Population: Children under 18 make up 25.9% of the population, or roughly 225,000 individuals.
- Economic Challenges: The county’s median household income is $55,417, with 20.1% of residents living below the poverty line. Among children, 26.9% live in poverty, significantly higher than the national average of 16.8%.
- Healthcare Access: About 23.5% of residents under 65 are uninsured, and the region has a primary care physician ratio of 2,070:1—well above the state average.
Additionally, the region includes 329 colonias, unincorporated and resource-poor communities that often lack basic infrastructure and healthcare access.
A Pediatric Health Crisis
The Paso del Norte region faces numerous health disparities, including limited access to specialty care, high rates of hypertension and diabetes, and mental health challenges. The region’s Social Vulnerability Index score is 0.95, far exceeding the Texas average of 0.65, indicating high levels of poverty, crowded households, and other risk factors.
Within El Paso Children’s Hospital, 20% of patients are covered by Medicaid, 45% are uninsured or underinsured, and the remaining 35% have Medicare or private insurance. Barriers such as poverty, citizenship status, and language access contribute to poorer health outcomes for children compared to other communities in Texas and the U.S.
A Hub of Military Presence and Education
El Paso is home to Fort Bliss, the U.S. Army’s second-largest military base, with over 38,500 active-duty soldiers, 39,400 family members, and 13,000 civilian employees. The military community plays a vital role in the region’s economy and healthcare needs.
The region is also an educational hub, hosting institutions that contribute significantly to healthcare innovation and workforce development, including:
- The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP): A leader in education and research, UTEP supports the region’s future healthcare professionals.
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso (TTUHSC El Paso): The only health sciences center on the U.S.-Mexico border, TTUHSC El Paso provides medical education, conducts groundbreaking research, and improves healthcare access in the region.
- El Paso Community College (EPCC): EPCC offers essential training programs for healthcare professionals, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers for the local healthcare system.
These institutions play a critical role in preparing the next generation of healthcare providers and addressing the unique medical needs of the Paso del Norte region.
Our Commitment
El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation is dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by children in our region. Through grants, major gifts, legacy giving, and community events, the Foundation raises funds to support:
- Specialized pediatric programs.
- Patient-centered care.
- State-of-the-art medical equipment.
- Education and research initiatives.
Together with our partners, donors, and supporters, we are building a healthier future for the children of the Paso del Norte region, ensuring they receive the compassionate, family-centered care they deserve.
Your support helps us make a difference in the lives of children across our diverse and vibrant community.
Sources
U.S. Census QuickFacts: El Paso County
CDC Social Vulnerability Index
