Kinder Foundation Pledges $150 Million for New Pediatric Cancer Center in Houston
HOUSTON, TX – In a groundbreaking initiative to combat childhood cancer, the Kinder Foundation has announced a $150 million donation to establish the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center, a joint venture between The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children’s Hospital. This facility will be located in the Texas Medical Center, specifically on the 6700 block of Main Street.
Rich Kinder, chairman of the Kinder Foundation, emphasized the importance of this mission, stating, “I can’t think of a better team than the combination of these two hospitals to spend money for a very good cause.” This donation stands as one of the largest philanthropic gifts to a pediatric hospital in the U.S., and the largest ever received by Texas Children’s in its 70-year history.
Set to open in early 2026, the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center will feature inpatient beds, ambulatory care, research labs, and a connecting sky bridge to Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Peter Pisters, president of MD Anderson, noted the transformative potential of the center, which will facilitate innovative research and clinical trials for pediatric oncology.
Statistically, over 1,700 children aged 20 or younger are diagnosed with cancer annually in Texas, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced treatment options. Debra F. Sukin, president and CEO of Texas Children’s, stated, “This will be a destination for all children with cancer,” predicting an influx of patients from across the nation and worldwide.
Rich Kinder envisions a welcoming environment, equipped with child-friendly amenities, to make the treatment experience less daunting for young patients. The new center aims to establish itself as a leading hub for pediatric cancer care and research, with the potential to drive significant advancements in drug discovery.
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