Boston Children’s is teaming up with Fundación Alegría to help more kids in Chile get the specialized health care they need. The foundation, which aims to support and bring joy to kids with complex health conditions, has made a nearly $1 million gift to Boston Children’s to launch the program.
Called Conecta Alegría, the new program will bring Chilean doctors to Boston Children’s—a world leader in pediatric care and research—to learn from experts about treating rare or complex neurological conditions in children. For example, they’ll focus on NF1, a genetic condition that causes tumors to grow on nerves and can impact a child’s learning, vision and bone development. Conditions like NF1 often require highly specialized training and are difficult to treat in many parts of the world. Conecta Alegría doctors will return to Chile and share what they’ve learned, helping more kids get the very best care, closer to home.
Boston Children’s specialists will also travel to Chile to teach, collaborate, and build lasting connections with local doctors and nurses—sharing expertise and bringing hope to more communities and families.
“This agreement reflects a long-standing vision for Chile—ensuring that our children have access to care at the highest international standards,” said Pilar Matte, President of Fundación Alegría.
Applications for Conecta Alegría are open until September 2026. At least 10 observers and two fellows will be chosen. Participants will be part of the Alegría Alumni Network to continue spreading knowledge and advancing pediatric care across Chile.
The program is one of many global partnerships at Boston Children’s, to expand quality care worldwide and ensure kids get the treatments and cures they need, no matter where they live.
