Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (PORT)
The Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (P.O.R.T.) is a “safe harbor” for families so they can focus on one priority: taking care of their child. PORT was founded in 1994 by a group of parents whose children were diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder.
Mission Statement
We will provide and promote compassionate, personalized support to families of children diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder.
Contact the PORT Program Coordinator
P.O.R.T. services
P.O.R.T. offers accessible sources of information regarding:
- Care Bags
- Sibling support bags
- Family laundry room
- Family snack pantry Inpatient & Outpatient Clinic
- Blankets
- Project Dream Room
- Respite Care
P.O.R.T. also offers services designed to make your days a little easier. Good company and small surprises are part of our complimentary support services.
P.O.R.T.'s special people
We know what you are going through, so let us help to reduce some of the anxiety and pain you might be experiencing. We have several types of volunteer teams specially designed to help you get through this trying time:
- Family support volunteers are assigned to one-on-one care with a family for support and friendship.
- Respite volunteers are available to sit with a child in the hospital so parents can meet with doctors, take a break, work, or attend to other children at home.
- P.O.R.T.’s dads group hosts family-friendly activities throughout the year. These events are planned so that dad can bring all the kids along. The only rule: Leave mom at home.
- Siblings’ events help siblings feel special, too. Held throughout the year, these events are designed to help families remember that not everyone in the family is sick.
P.O.R.T.'s special things
When challenged with a child who is sick, families can use encouragement and little pick-me-ups.
- P.O.R.T. Care Bags are filled with personal care items. These are given to families when their child is hospitalized or at the time of diagnosis.
- Family laundry room inpatient, stocked with detergent and supplies for washing clothes and a favorite blanket without leaving the hospital.
- P.O.R.T.'s inpatient family snack pantry is available to all inpatient families.
- Meal passes to the cafeteria.
- Gas cards are available to qualifying families who commute from outside the Grand Rapids area.
Give a Gift to Support P.O.R.T.
Give support to children in West Michigan battling cancer or a blood disorder today.