UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation unveils new inspirational children's book to help Sarasota County families in need

The UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF) recently unveiled its new children’s book, “Oliver & Hope’s Superhero Saturday,” the third in a series of award-winning books that help raise money for children’s medical grants available to families in Sarasota County. The grants help for medical expenses not covered, or not fully covered, by their parents’ commercial health insurance plan.

The 32-page book, geared toward children ages 3-8, delivers a fun story and engaging images that enable readers to imagine how they might become a hero like the characters. The heartwarming story also teaches subtle lessons about the power of friendship, resiliency and imagination.

Grant Awards

To date, UHCCF has provided over $44,000 in children’s medical grants to families in Sarasota County for medical services and equipment such as physical, occupational and speech therapy, counseling services, surgeries, prescriptions, wheelchairs, orthotics, eyeglasses and hearing aids. More than 775 grants have been made to Florida children totaling more than $3 million. Last year, UHCCF awarded medical grants worth an estimated $5.4 million to more than 2,000 children across the United States. There is no deadline to apply and are provided to qualifying families for medical expenses incurred 60 days prior to the date of application as well as for ongoing and future medical needs.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a grant, children must be 16 years of age or younger. Families must meet economic guidelines, reside in the United States and have a commercial health insurance plan. Qualifying families can receive up to $5,000 per grant with a lifetime maximum of $10,000 per child. Parents or legal guardians may apply for grants at www.UHCCF.org, and there is no application deadline.

Oliver & Hope Series

In addition to the newly released “Oliver & Hope’s Superhero Saturday,” the three-book series includes “Oliver & Hope’s Amusing Adventure” and “Oliver & Hope’s Adventure Under the Stars.” All the books have been written by Meg Cadts and beautifully hand-illustrated and painted by Samantha Fitch. Meg Cadts is the pen name for the UHCCF team of writers and contributors.

How to purchase

All three books of the Oliver & Hope series are available through uhccf.org/shop for $13.95 each. Proceeds from the books and plush toys from the series help fund UHCCF grants.

“We created the Oliver & Hope series to provide joy and inspiration for children. We are grateful to have received such positive feedback on the books, especially since the proceeds from the books and toys are helping children access medical care that will improve their health and quality of life,” said UHCCF President Matt Peterson.

More information about the Oilver & Hope books, including free audio recordings of the books as well as fun activities and downloads, can be found at Oliver & Hope’s Clubhouse at UHCCF.org.

About UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation

The UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides medical grants to help children gain access to health-related services not covered, or not fully covered, by their parents’ commercial health insurance plan. Families can receive up to $5,000 annually per child ($10,000 lifetime maximum per child), and do not need to have insurance through UnitedHealthcare to be eligible. UHCCF was founded in 1999. Since 2007, UHCCF has awarded more than 8,600 grants valued at over $26 million to children and their families across the United States. UHCCF’s funding is provided by contributions from individuals, corporations and UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) employees. To apply for a grant, donate or learn more, please visit www.UHCCF.org.