At UPMC Children’s, art therapy impacts the lives of thousands of kids and families each year.
Recently, supporters came together to meet a unique matching gift challenge, raising more than $2 million to strengthen art therapy services that help patients and their loved ones cope and connect.
Annual Art Show Celebrates Healing
That spirit of connection was on full display this month at our annual in-hospital art show, Building Bridges: The Art of Connection. Held on March 18, 2026, the exhibit featured powerful and deeply personal works created not only by patients, but also by parents, caregivers, and hospital staff.
Art therapy plays a vital role in helping children and families navigate the emotional challenges of illness and hospitalization. Guided by licensed therapists, patients use creative expression to explore difficult feelings, build coping skills, and regain a sense of control during an uncertain time.
But as this year’s theme suggests, the impact of art therapy further builds a sense of connection and community. Through shared creative experiences, patients and families are reminded that they are not alone.
Thanks to the generosity of our donor community, that connection continues to grow.
Doubling the Impact Through Donor Support
Last year, supporters came together to fully realize a matching gift challenge from an anonymous donor in support of art therapy. The matching gift doubled the impact of every contribution, allowing the art therapy team to reach more children and families throughout the hospital. Together, you helped raise more than $2 million, ensuring that these services remain available to every child and family who needs them.
Because of this support, art therapy at UPMC Children’s continues to reach patients across the hospital — from inpatient units to caregiver support groups — offering comfort, expression, and moments of relief during some of the most challenging days.
We are grateful to all who make this work possible. Your support helps ensure that, even in the midst of illness, children and families can express themselves, experience healing, and build bridges through art.
