Rob and Karen Hale have announced an extraordinary $100 million dollar gift to support children’s mental wellness by naming a signature building in Brighton on the campus of Franciscan Children’s, which became part of the Boston Children’s health system in 2023.
This gift, the largest in the hospital’s philanthropic history, will enable researchers, clinicians and caregivers to reimagine how mental and behavioral health care is delivered to children and families.
“Boston Children’s is the best in the world, and that’s what’s needed to turn the tide on mental health for kids everywhere,” said Rob Hale.
This gift will help Boston Children’s set the new standard for pediatric behavioral health—bringing together critical research, prevention, treatment, community support, and a state-of-the-art facility. Just as importantly, it will drive a shift in the way people think about emotional well-being, making it a fundamental part of the care families expect and deserve. Its impact will be felt for generations.
“We are proud to stand with Boston Children’s in this critical moment so all children and families can feel supported, understood, and hopeful about the future,” said Karen Hale.
Fueled by the Hales' partnership, Boston Children’s will seamlessly integrate mental health into every aspect of childhood care through:
The Hales have long supported the work at Boston Children’s.
In 2015, responding to the needs of patient families, they established the Hale Family Center for Families, a resource center which strives to create a home away from home for families during their time at Boston Children’s.
In 2018 they supported and named the Hale Family Building, Boston Children’s 11 story state-of-the-art clinical tower, providing children and families with advanced medicine, research and healing spaces.