On May 1, 2023, the CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health Foundation and Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hosted a dedication ceremony for the newly renovated Pediatric Unit at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth Hospital. The renovation features an immersive “under the sea” theme and a comfortable, modern environment intended to help promote healing and recovery in an area designed specifically for children.

The successful renovation of the Pediatric Unit was made possible through the dedicated efforts of our community partners and supporters who fundraise throughout the year to provide money to CMN in Southeast Texas. 100 percent of all funds raised for CMN in Southeast Texas stay local to help sick kids in our community.

In addition to the incredible remodel, in 2022 CMN funds also provided over $330,000 worth of state-of-the-art medical equipment and services to help ensure that our youngest, most vulnerable patients at CHRISTUS receive the top care available.

“We are thrilled with the renovation of our Pediatric Unit, and it’s all thanks to the incredible dedication of our community partners and supporters who have given so generously to support the well-being of our youngest patients,” said Caralee Thompson, Program Manager for Children’s Miracle Network. “We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to make today possible.”

The renovation also features interactive and electronic equipment in both patient rooms and common areas, as well as an updated playroom to help provide the best possible experience during difficult circumstances. “At the end of the day, it’s all about our patients,” said Lacey Goodman, Director of Pediatrics and Neonatal ICU at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth Hospital. “This renovation, as well as the additional equipment purchased, will allow our highly trained staff to continue to provide personalized care for every patient using the best resources out there. Our nurses and staff work with children because it’s truly their calling and I’m so incredibly proud of the work they do every day.”

The CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Foundation held our 40^th Annual Gala Saturday, April 15 at the Beaumont Civic Center. This event has become one of the most anticipated fundraising events each year and has drawn some of the biggest names in entertainment. This year we were honored to add Country Music Hall of Famer, Wynonna Judd to that list!

With over 900 attendees, this black-tie benefit provided an opportunity for an intimate evening filled with amazing music, great food, and fantastic company! The Foundation honored The Penland Foundation with the Legacy Award, for their philanthropic efforts as the lead donor of our Maternal Child Unit Renovation. CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth will be able to provide state of the art care to our tiniest patients and their mothers. The Penland Foundation’s support of this project will make a difference to future generations of CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Families. It will have a lasting impact on patients and families by welcoming more newborns and sending them home safely with bright, promising futures ahead of them.

The Valero Foundation was also honored with the Service Award. This Award is bestowed on an organization or community member who has served their community and CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Foundation’s mission over the years. In 2022, the Valero Foundation pledged to be the lead equipment donor for our Maternal Child Unit. This donation ensured that CHRISTUS Health Southeast Texas stays at the forefront of maternal, fetal, and pediatric medicine in our region. This Equipment Update for the Maternal and Child Unit at CHRISTUS Hospital St. Elizabeth will help to meet the patient needs through state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technology, which will be matched by the highest levels of compassionate and expert maternity, labor and delivery, and infant care.

We would like to take an opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible 2023 sponsors. Your generous contributions made the evening possible and allowed us to raise funds to support the needs of women and children services in Southeast Texas.

Warmest regards,

The CHRISTUS Foundation Team