Who We Are

Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP) was established in Portland, Oregon in 2006 with the mission of bringing the healing power of art to children and families facing medical challenges. We envision a future where every child, regardless of their health circumstances, has access to art to enhance their overall well-being.

Our innovative arts programs foster environments where children are celebrated for their creativity and ingenuity, rather than defined by their illness or diagnosis.

In local hospitals, CHAP teaching artists provide 25 hours of free onsite art-making per week across partners including OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, Shriners Children’s Portland, and Providence St. Vincent Medical Center.

When children are discharged from the hospital, they are invited to participate in our weekly Art Club in the CHAP Art Studio – allowing them to continue their creative journey, meet new friends, and build community.

For those who live too far from Portland or are unable to meet in-person for other reasons, quarterly CHAP in a Box deliveries of art supplies are mailed to the homes of children and their families.

We are a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization; our tax identification number is 61-1499793.

Art Heals.

Medical environments can often be a place of significant anxiety, fear, and restlessness. Children living with illness and life-altering disabilities are likely to experience pain, fear, depression, anxiety, and isolation. These challenges stem from both the physical impacts of their conditions and the emotional strain of dealing with prolonged health issues.

A growing body of research demonstrates that incorporating arts experiences into healthcare can play an instrumental role in the healing process and improve overall quality of life. Self-expression through art is an effective way for children to cope with pain and help them regain a sense of control over their lives. Art also has a positive effect on the whole family, promoting bonding between family members and caregivers while reducing stress for everyone involved.