KVOA 4: Back-To-School Feature

Helping Tucson students: Free supplies and haircuts for back-to-school

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – Children’s Clinics and Mercy Care teamed up to assist students in need. The annual Back-to-School Fair took place with a focus on helping students and their families prepare for the upcoming school year.

Big-name brands like Supercuts, QuikTrip, and Walmart contributed to the event by offering guests free backpacks filled with school supplies, haircuts, and other classroom essentials.

“We take care of over 5,000 kids with medical complexity. Over 85 percent of them are financially disadvantaged and receiving support from Medicaid and other agencies and so this is an opportunity for us to really help them set up for success for the new school year ahead,” said Gemma Thomas, Chief Administrative Officer.

“We get to meet new people… We get to meet new people and we get tattoos,” said the Figueora family.

Thomas also mentioned that the organization is distributing 600 backpacks filled with supplies to those in need, not only during the event but throughout the next week as well.

The event was held at the Children’s Clinic from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on July 11, 2025.

SEE STORY HERE

 

Children’s Clinics and Mercy Care Team Up to Host Annual Back-to-School Fair

NEWS ALERT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Children’s Clinics and Mercy Care Team Up to Host Annual Back-to-School Fair.

Tucson, AZ (July 7, 2025) – Children’s Clinics, a local nonprofit outpatient care center for children with special healthcare needs, is excited to announce its annual Back-to-School Fair, proudly sponsored by Mercy Care, with additional support from Supercuts, Walmart, QuikTrip, and Truly Nolen. The event will take place on Friday, July 11, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Children’s Clinics campus at 2600 N. Wyatt Drive.

This beloved event provides children and families with essential school supplies, free haircuts, and a sense of readiness for the new school year. Supercuts stylists will be on-site offering fresh haircuts to patients and their siblings, helping kids feel confident and prepared as they head back to class.

“For families raising a child with complex medical conditions, back-to-school time can bring significant financial strain,” explained Jared Perkins, CEO of Children’s Clinics. “This event goes beyond providing supplies and haircuts, it’s about giving our families the chance to begin the school year with dignity, confidence, and the support of a caring community.”

Mercy Care has been a longstanding partner in supporting this event. “Families of children with complex medical needs navigate challenges that extend far beyond healthcare,” said Debbie Hillman, Mercy Care’s Chief Administrative Officer. “That’s why we’re proud to support Children’s Clinics’ back-to-school event—ensuring these students have the essentials for a strong start to the year. At Mercy Care, we believe in fostering healthier, brighter futures for our community, helping every member thrive and reach their fullest potential.”

With the generosity of sponsors like Mercy Care, Walmart, QuikTrip, and Truly Nolen, Children’s Clinics will distribute 600 free backpacks filled with supplies, ensuring that children with medical complexities and their siblings can return to school ready for success.

The event will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Children’s Clinics, Square & Compass Building, 2600 N. Wyatt Drive, and is for Children’s Clinics patients and their families only. Mercy Care representatives will be present, not only handing out backpacks, but also promoting their wellness check program for children. In addition, Supercuts hairstylists will be on-site to deliver haircuts to Children’s Clinics patients and their young family members.

Children with complex illnesses face different challenges than other children, and most of Children’s Clinics’ families have children with multiple simultaneous pediatric illnesses, meaning that they face even greater challenges. In addition, 95% of Children’s Clinics’ families are low-income and face job and housing insecurity due to the amount of time devoted to caring for their children. Children’s Clinics has been hosting this Back-to-School event for over 12 years, assuring that their patients and their families have the essentials needed for a new school year.

About Children’s Clinics: Children’s Clinics is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, outpatient care center that has served children with special healthcare needs and their families in southern Arizona for over 30 years. Children’s Clinics offers 25 different medical and dental specialties on a single campus, as well as wraparound social services and special programs for children with complex illnesses such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell, and many others. The mission of Children’s Clinics is to provide a family-centered, comprehensive medical home to meet the special needs of children and families. www.childrensclinics.org

About Mercy Care: Mercy Care is a not-for-profit Medicaid managed-care health plan, serving AHCCCS members in Arizona since 1985. Mercy Care is a local company sponsored by Dignity Health and Ascension Health. Mercy Care provides access to physical and behavioral health care services for Medicaid-eligible families, children, seniors, and individuals with developmental/cognitive disabilities. Learn more at http://www.MercyCareAZ.org.

Children’s Clinics Launches The BIG Summer Give

Children’s Clinics Launches Big Summer Give to Support Children with Special Healthcare Needs

TUCSON, AZ (June 10, 2025) — Children’s Clinics has launched its Big Summer Give campaign, a heartfelt community effort to ensure children with complex medical needs experience the joy and magic of childhood through three signature events this year.

The summer campaign kicks off with an urgent call for donations to support the upcoming Back-to-School Fair on July 11, which provides backpacks, school supplies, and vital resources to low-income families. The event ensures that children with special healthcare needs can start the school year feeling confident, prepared, and supported.

“These are more than just events,” said Jared Perkins, CEO of Children’s Clinics. “They’re powerful experiences that offer our families a sense of normalcy, joy, and community, reminding them they are never alone.”

In addition to the Back-to-School Fair, the Big Summer Give supports:

  • Spooktacular Halloween – A safe and adaptive trick-or-treat celebration where every child can experience the joy of dressing up and being part of the fun.

  • Holiday Toy Market – A festive event where patients and their siblings can “shop” for new toys, creating magical memories during the holiday season.

The public is encouraged to donate www.childrensclinics.org/summergive. All contributions are tax-deductible and eligible for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit, allowing donors to give at no net cost.

“Whether it’s $25 or $250, every gift helps bring a smile to a child’s face and creates memories that last a lifetime,” said Perkins.

Children’s Clinics serves children and families across Southern Arizona, providing comprehensive, family-centered care to more than 5,000 patients with complex medical conditions each year.

To learn more or make a donation, visit www.childrensclinics.org/summergive.

About Children’s Clinics
Children’s Clinics is a nonprofit pediatric outpatient facility in Tucson, AZ, that offers over 25 specialty and sub-specialty services under one roof. For over 70 years, Children’s Clinics has served children with complex medical needs in a compassionate, family-centered environment, helping them grow, thrive, and experience the fullness of childhood.

Back-to-School Fair

The 2026 date for the Children’s Clinics Back-To-School Fair is set for Friday, July 10. More details will be announced here when closer to the event. Thank you!

 

Adaptive Theatre

***Registration Now Full*** Waitlist is available.

🎭 Lights, Camera, Imagination! 🎭
Get ready to take center stage in our eight-week Adaptive Theatre Program, specially designed for the Children’s Clinics community! Through exciting theatre games, creative storytelling, and laugh-out-loud improvisation, participants will build confidence, spark their imagination, and connect with others in a supportive, joyful environment.

No experience needed! just bring your creativity and a sense of fun! Let’s create, play, and shine together! 🌟

***Registration Now Full*** Waitlist is available below.

Adaptive Theatre 2025

    Our team will contact you if a spot opens up.
  • MM slash DD slash YYYY
  • (English, Español, etc)
  • Please identify an individual other than yourself that we can contact in case of an emergency. / Por favor identifique a un individuo aparte de usted mismo que podamos contactar en caso de emergencia
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - Speech / Hablado - Other Sounds / Otros Sonidos - Eye Gaze / Mirada - Gestures / Gestos - A communication device / Un aparato de comunicación
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - Short Simple Directions / Instrucciones cortas y simples - Repetition / Repetición - Face to face communication / Comunicación cara a cara - Speaking at a slow pace / Hablar lento
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - crawling / gateando - walking with assistance / camina con asistencia - walking with out assistance / camina sin asistencia - wheeled mobility / movilidad con ruedas - other assistive device / otro aparato de asistencia
    I understand that I must remain and be present at Live Theatre Workshop for the duration of the program while my child participates in Music. / Entiendo que debo permanecer presente en Live Theatre Workshop de Tucson durante la duración del programa mientras mi hijo participa en Musica
    I authorize my child to participate in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences Programs. I acknowledge the risks inherent in the participation by my child. In my absence, I further authorize the staff representing Children’s Clinics to act for me according to their best judgment in any emergency requiring medical attention for my child and I hereby waive and release those staffers, and volunteers of Children’s Clinics from all liability for any injuries or illnesses, that may be incurred while participating in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences, while in attendance, except for injury directly resulting from gross negligence or willful misconduct. /Autorizo que mi hijo participe en los Programas de Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños. Reconozco los riesgos adjuntos a la participación de mi hijo. En mi ausencia, autorizo al personal representante de la Clínica de los Niños a actuar por mi acorde a su mejor juicio en cualquier emergencia que requiera atención médica para mi hijo y por el presente exento y libero a esos empleados y voluntarios de la Clínica de los Niños de toda responsabilidad de cualquier lesiones o enfermedades que pudieran adquirir mientras participan en Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños, mientras atienda, excepto por lesiones resultantes directamente de negligencia grave o mala conducta intencional.
    I consent to the photographing/video recording/ audio recording of the above-named patients by Children's Clinics staff at this event. I agree the resulting images or recordings may be used for Children's Clinics publicity or marketing purposes (brochure, pamphlet, lobby display, social media posts, printed material, etc.). I understand that I have the right to reverse this consent, in writing, at any time before the image or recording is used for the purposes indicated above. / Yo consiento la toma de fotografías/grabación de video/grabación de audio de los participantes mencionado anteriormente por el personal de la Clínica de los Niños en este evento. Estoy de acuerdo con que las imagines o grabaciones resultantes sean usadas para los propósitos de publicidad o marketing (folleto, panfleto, exposición en el vestíbulo, publicaciones de redes sociales, materiales impresos, etc.). Entiendo que tengo el derecho de revertir este consentimiento, en escrito, en cualquier antes de que la imagen o grabación sean usados para los propósitos indicados anteriormente.
    I understand that the information provided in this registration form may be accessed and reviewed by staff, therapists, instructors, and volunteers involved in this adaptive rec program to ensure the best possible support for the participant. / Entiendo que la información proporcionada en este formulario de inscripción puede ser accedida y revisada por el personal, terapeutas, instructores y voluntarios involucrados en este programa de recreación adaptada para garantizar el mejor apoyo posible al participante.

 

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Adaptive Dance 2025

Join us for our 6 week Adaptive Dance Program.  Each day will be a different style of dance! Salsa, Disco Country, Hip Hop and more!  We can’t wait to move and groove with you in a supportive and inclusive environment! All abilities welcome!

Dates: Monday Evenings. June 2 – July 7, 2025

Where: Kids Unlimited Studios | 6066 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704

GRAB YOUR SPOT! REGISTER BELOW!

Adaptive Soccer 2026 in partnership with Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation

Register to participate in our upcoming 7-week session Adaptive Soccer program, which starts Tuesday, January 20, 2026 through March 3, 2026. Participants will learn the fundamentals of soccer with friends in a supportive community! All abilities are welcome!!!

Location: Maracana Indoor Sports Arena I 555 E 18th St, Tucson, AZ 85701

Dates: Tuesdays, January 20 – March 3, 2026

Times: Group 1 – 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm and Group 2 – 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm (Groups are based on both age AND ability)

Register is now FULL. Please add your name to the waitlist and we will contact you if a spot opens up. 

Adaptive Soccer Registration 2026

    Please check all that apply.
  • (English, Español, etc)
  • (English, Español, etc)
  • Please identify an individual other than yourself that we can contact in case of an emergency. / Por favor identifique a un individuo aparte de usted mismo que podamos contactar en caso de emergencia
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - Speech / Hablado - Other Sounds / Otros Sonidos - Eye Gaze / Mirada - Gestures / Gestos - A communication device / Un aparato de comunicación
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - Short Simple Directions / Instrucciones cortas y simples - Repetition / Repetición - Face to face communication / Comunicación cara a cara - Speaking at a slow pace / Hablar lento
  • Example (Please list all that apply): - crawling / gateando - walking with assistance / camina con asistencia - walking with out assistance / camina sin asistencia - wheeled mobility / movilidad con ruedas - other assistive device / otro aparato de asistencia
    I understand that I must remain and be present at the venue for the duration of the program while my child participates in dance. / Entiendo que debo permanecer presente durante la duración del programa mientras mi hijo participa en futbol
    I authorize my child to participate in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences Programs. I acknowledge the risks inherent in the participation by my child. In my absence, I further authorize the staff representing Children’s Clinics to act for me according to their best judgment in any emergency requiring medical attention for my child and I hereby waive and release those staffers, and volunteers of Children’s Clinics from all liability for any injuries or illnesses, that may be incurred while participating in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences, while in attendance, except for injury directly resulting from gross negligence or willful misconduct. /Autorizo que mi hijo participe en los Programas de Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños. Reconozco los riesgos adjuntos a la participación de mi hijo. En mi ausencia, autorizo al personal representante de la Clínica de los Niños a actuar por mi acorde a su mejor juicio en cualquier emergencia que requiera atención médica para mi hijo y por el presente exento y libero a esos empleados y voluntarios de la Clínica de los Niños de toda responsabilidad de cualquier lesiones o enfermedades que pudieran adquirir mientras participan en Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños, mientras atienda, excepto por lesiones resultantes directamente de negligencia grave o mala conducta intencional.
    I consent to the photographing/video recording/ audio recording of the above-named patients by Children's Clinics staff at this event. I agree the resulting images or recordings may be used for Children's Clinics publicity or marketing purposes (brochure, pamphlet, lobby display, social media posts, printed material, etc.). I understand that I have the right to reverse this consent, in writing, at any time before the image or recording is used for the purposes indicated above. / Yo consiento la toma de fotografías/grabación de video/grabación de audio de los participantes mencionado anteriormente por el personal de la Clínica de los Niños en este evento. Estoy de acuerdo con que las imagines o grabaciones resultantes sean usadas para los propósitos de publicidad o marketing (folleto, panfleto, exposición en el vestíbulo, publicaciones de redes sociales, materiales impresos, etc.). Entiendo que tengo el derecho de revertir este consentimiento, en escrito, en cualquier antes de que la imagen o grabación sean usados para los propósitos indicados anteriormente.
    I understand that the information provided in this registration form may be accessed and reviewed by staff, therapists, instructors, and volunteers involved in this adaptive rec program to ensure the best possible support for the participant. / Entiendo que la información proporcionada en este formulario de inscripción puede ser accedida y revisada por el personal, terapeutas, instructores y voluntarios involucrados en este programa de recreación adaptada para garantizar el mejor apoyo posible al participante.

 

Spring Event: Rock, Ride, Or Roll!!

Join us April 5th, for Rockstar themed Walk, Ride, or Roll event! Family and friends are invited to walk, ride a tricycle, bicycle, scooter, or use a wheelchair to get some exercise and connect with others in the community. Costumes are optional but encouraged! There will be a costume contest! All Abilities Welcome!

Must Register Below!

Walk (Rock), Ride, Roll Registration 2025

  • Please enter a number from 0 to 8.
  • Please enter a number from 0 to 8.
    I consent to the photographing/video recording/ audio recording of the above-named patients by Children's Clinics staff at this event. I agree the resulting images or recordings may be used for Children's Clinics publicity or marketing purposes (brochure, pamphlet, lobby display, social media posts, printed material, etc.). I understand that I have the right to reverse this consent, in writing, at any time before the image or recording is used for the purposes indicated above. / Yo consiento la toma de fotografías/grabación de video/grabación de audio de los participantes mencionado anteriormente por el personal de la Clínica de los Niños en este evento. Estoy de acuerdo con que las imagines o grabaciones resultantes sean usadas para los propósitos de publicidad o marketing (folleto, panfleto, exposición en el vestíbulo, publicaciones de redes sociales, materiales impresos, etc.). Entiendo que tengo el derecho de revertir este consentimiento, en escrito, en cualquier antes de que la imagen o grabación sean usados para los propósitos indicados anteriormente.
    I authorize my child to participate in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences Programs. I acknowledge the risks inherent in the participation by my child. In my absence, I further authorize the staff representing Children’s Clinics to act for me according to their best judgment in any emergency requiring medical attention for my child and I hereby waive and release those staffers, and volunteers of Children’s Clinics from all liability for any injuries or illnesses, that may be incurred while participating in Children’s Clinics Childhood Experiences, while in attendance, except for injury directly resulting from gross negligence or willful misconduct. /Autorizo que mi hijo participe en los Programas de Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños. Reconozco los riesgos adjuntos a la participación de mi hijo. En mi ausencia, autorizo al personal representante de la Clínica de los Niños a actuar por mi acorde a su mejor juicio en cualquier emergencia que requiera atención médica para mi hijo y por el presente exento y libero a esos empleados y voluntarios de la Clínica de los Niños de toda responsabilidad de cualquier lesiones o enfermedades que pudieran adquirir mientras participan en Experiencias Infantiles de la Clínica de los Niños, mientras atienda, excepto por lesiones resultantes directamente de negligencia grave o mala conducta intencional.

El Tour Family Fun Ride

Get ready for a fun-filled day at El Tour de Tucson! The Family Fun Ride is the perfect event for everyone to feel like an athlete for the day. Choose between two courses—1 mile or 3 miles—and bring the whole family for an unforgettable ride. Sign up today and be part of the FUN! 🎉

To participate, you MUST register with El Tour de Tucson. Here are the steps:

1) Click HERE to go to the El Tour de Tucson website

2) Either sign in if you are returning, OR register.

3) IMPORTANT: When selecting your event, CHOOSE the second option of “Select a Nonprofit to Ride OR Fundraise For.”

4) If you have other people to register, do it on this page before hitting CONTINUE.

4) On the next page, read and accept the waiver if you agree to the terms.

5) Review the emergency contacts and other information.

6) On the Fundraising Page, all you have to do is select the Charity Team. Make sure you select Children’s Clinics. If you do not select Children’s Clinics, we do not know you are riding! You do not need to fill anything else out, only the boxes on that form with an asterisk (*).

7) Then you can make your payment. If you need assistance with payment, please contact Caitlyn Colin at caitlyn.colin@childrensclinics

**Note, you are responsible for picking up your riding packet before the event**

If you are a Children’s Clinics family and would like a t-shirt for the event, and/or need parking assistance, please fill out the form below. T-shirt orders MUST be placed by Thursday, October 30, 2025.