History and Legal Structure
The Children’s SPOT opened in 1980 in response to community need and Saint Luke’s Hospital’s commitment to providing a broad spectrum of high quality care to patients.  In the early 1990s the program was significantly affected by reductions, and in some cases, elimination of insurance reimbursements.  An increasing operating deficit put the program in jeopardy of closing.  However, with the approval of Saint Luke’s Hospital, an Advisory Board was established in 1994.  Their mission is to assist The Children’s SPOT in achieving and maintaining financial stability and community awareness through beneficial relationships, strategic planning, donor cultivation and stewardship. This has proven very successful, with nearly $1.5 million raised in the past six years. Over 10,000 children have received services through The Children’s SPOT since its inception.  Funding that covers approximately two-thirds of the budget, comes from insurance reimbursement, state-funded programs, Saint Luke’s Hospital, and parents.  The remaining third is raised through philanthropic support from the community.  Acceptance into the program is never based on ability to pay.  Saint Luke’s is a not-for-profit teaching hospital and center for medical research.  The Saint Luke’s Hospital Foundation provides guidance and resources for The Children’s SPOT and manages its Family Assistance, Operating, and Endowment Funds.