MercyOne Des Moines Foundation Non-Profit Partner Spotlight: Variety – the Children’s Charity

MercyOne Children’s Hospital and Variety – the Children’s Charity have a long-standing partnership dedicated to improving the lives of Iowa’s children. For over four decades, the two organizations have collaborated to provide essential care and support to young patients.

As one of MercyOne Des Moines Foundation’s most significant grantors, Variety has generously contributed over $10 million to MercyOne affiliates, including MercyOne House of Mercy and MercyOne Children’s Hospital. Their support has had a profound impact on providing excellent patient care and treatment at MercyOne.  

“Thanks to the generosity of Variety – the Children’s Charity, countless children and their families can receive state-of-the-art care from our MercyOne family,” said Shannon Cofield, President of MercyOne Des Moines Foundation. “The collaboration between our two organizations is a testament to the power of compassion and the importance of investing in our community's youngest members."

Recently, MercyOne House of Mercy was awarded a grant to purchase new furniture to update their lounge and dining areas. The updated furniture will create a more comfortable and welcoming environment for patients and families at MercyOne House of Mercy.  

“Comfort for our clients is more than just a physical need; it's a crucial component of the healing process,” said Rebecca Peterson, Director of House of Mercy. “By creating a warm and inviting environment, we can significantly enhance the overall patient experience and contribute to positive outcomes.”

Variety Executive Director, Wendy Ingham, commented on the partnership between MercyOne and Variety – the Children’s Charity: “Variety is incredibly proud to join forces with MercyOne Des Moines in our commitment to creating meaningful change in the lives of children who are underprivileged, at-risk, critically ill, and living with special needs. Through this partnership, we are working together to provide hope, support, and opportunities that empower these children to thrive and build a brighter future.”

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center was also the recipient of a Variety – the Children’s Charity grant. Funds will be used to purchase new equipment throughout MercyOne Children’s Hospital. The William and Josephine Norkaitis NICU will be purchasing a Jet Ventilator, that will be used to provide advanced respiratory support for newborns. The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit will purchase a state-of-the-art Sonosite Ultrasound machine, to enhance diagnostic capabilities for critically ill children. The Mother/Baby Unit will purchase a Rapid Response Unit, a system that assesses and intervenes early to prevent a serious maternity care emergency.  

“Variety’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art medical equipment is crucial to delivering exceptional care to MercyOne Des Moines’ youngest patients. Without the support of visionary organizations like Variety, pediatric healthcare would be significantly limited,” said Maria Nelson, Market Director of MercyOne Children’s Hospital. “Through this enduring partnership, MercyOne and Variety are working together to create a brighter future for Iowa’s children.”  

Join us in supporting Variety during their 51st Annual Variety Telethon on March 1, 2025.