An interactive, philanthropic Web site is providing low-income, chronically ill children an online oasis where they can communicate with friends, doctors, nurses and teachers.
Launched last month, the site (http://www.kidshealthlink.org) is the brainchild of Kids' HealthLINK, a San Franciso-based nonprofit. After being treated and released from the hospital, homebound children with severe illnesses can
register for an email account through the site and build this online network through a WebTV connection. The site also allows parents to research their children's condition and
find out about local events and support groups.
Kids' HealthLINK is working with San Francisco-area hospitals to promote the site to children and their families.
Last year Kids' HealthLINK was one of three ERICA award recipients that received Web development services and technology assistance for an innovative social marketing program.
The awards, which include a $100,000 grant, are sponsored by Ericcson, a telecom and datacom technology provider. Ericcson partnered with Appnet, a communication firm, to develop
the Kids' HealthLINK site. Additional support for the project is provided by the California Telehealth and Telemedicine Center.
(Ericcson, Helen Simpson, 905/206-7851, http://www.ericcson.com/Erica)