Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) has announced that it has raised more than $100 million to support care at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital since 1984. This fundraising milestone represents one of the most significant philanthropic achievements for children’s health in the region, according to the organization.
Funds raised by CMN have been used to provide equipment, research funding, programs, and family support services for thousands of children each year at the hospital. Recent initiatives made possible by donor contributions include acquiring advanced imaging technology that reduces scan times and anesthesia needs, supporting medical safe summer camps such as Camp LionHeart and PA Vent Camp for children with complex medical conditions, and expanding the Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center. The NICU expansion is expected to be completed in fall 2026 and will help families access neonatal care closer to home while allowing seamless transfers to higher-level care when needed.
Donor funds also continue to support essential patient assistance programs, music therapy, Child Life services, and other initiatives aimed at improving comfort during hospital stays.
The impact of these efforts is illustrated by Sam Erikson, a former patient who was born prematurely and spent his early months in a donor-funded NICU incubator. Throughout his childhood, he underwent multiple surgeries supported by technology and services provided through community donations. He later participated in CMN events like the Pay 4 Play radiothon on The People’s Morning Show on 105.7 THE X—a platform that helped inspire his current career path as a part-time radio host for WITF in Harrisburg.
Sam is now pursuing graduate studies in higher education leadership at Messiah University and works as a graduate assistant supporting students with learning accommodations.
The $100 million milestone was achieved through contributions from local fundraisers, national corporate partners, volunteers, and community-led events such as Telethon and Pay 4 Play.
“Reaching the $100 million mark is proof of the incredible compassion and commitment of our donor community,” said Katie Anderson, director of CMN at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital. “Every dollar given—big or small—is an investment in healthier futures for our kids. It helps them heal and thrive, and gives them the gift of growing up.”
CMN stated it plans to focus on expanding partnerships within the community to meet increasing needs among children and families going forward.
For further details about how donations support technology advancements and care for local families: www.cmnhershey.org
