For Schools
One in every five schools has a student in treatment for cancer, disconnected from their classmates for an average of 180 days. These children can fall behind in class work and suffer from social isolation and loneliness. To combat this reality, Hopecam connects children with cancer with their classmates, using a combination of webcams, computer or tablets, and Internet access—all of which we provide and set up at no expense to families or schools.
Kids feel more supported from their classmates during cancer treatment, are less depressed, less anxious, and have higher self-esteem than those who did not connect with classmates. Classmates also gain firsthand knowledge of the power of empathy and inclusion: For every child we connect, we help 20 classmates experience the power of empathy.
While no two schools are alike, with differing privacy policies and technology needs, Hopecam works one-on-one with schools to demystify cancer in real time and to identify the best scenario to connect a child undergoing treatment for cancer. We can even provide teachers with instructions and lesson plans to help them adjust to having a virtual student, and every teacher can control the camera with a remote to help the student at home learn and see what is going on in the classroom. Hopecam team members are assigned to every child and every school, providing monthly and quarterly check-ins to answer questions and assist with any challenges that might occur along the way.
HopeGram School Kit
HopeGram is Hopecam’s newest way to help kids in treatment stay connected to their classmates, even when virtual connections aren’t possible. Designed for elementary-aged students (Pre-K through 5th grade), it gives classrooms fun, hands-on projects that help classmates show they care, and remind their Hopecam friend they’re still part of the class.
HopeGram can be used on its own as a meaningful, non-technology-based way to stay in touch, and can also be paired with Hopecam’s virtual connection for an even more engaging and impactful classroom connection experience.
For our youngest students (Pre-K–2nd), each kit also includes a bonus classroom copy of My Brave Friend: Emma and Noah Fight Cancer Together, a gentle, age-appropriate story that helps children understand what their classmate is going through and how they can be kind and supportive.
Each HopeGram kit includes:
Three pre-planned class projects, supplies, and an overview for teachers
A classroom copy of My Brave Friend (included in PreK–2 kits)
An optional virtual read-aloud with the class, including the Hopecam child if possible
Tips for combining HopeGram with Hopecam’s virtual school connection for even more ways to stay in touch
HopeGram helps classrooms build empathy and connection, ensuring every Hopecam child, whether connected virtually, through the projects their classmates send, or both, feels supported, included, and remembered during treatment.
“HopeGram has helped her feel connected to her classmates. When we read each card to her, it made her so happy. It’s been an uplifting experience for us, and Oluwafunbi is encouraged to keep pushing forward. Thank you so much! ”
Hopecam Child Naomi Attending School Virtually With Her Class
“The first day of using the Hopecam, I helped the family at their house while the teacher connected in the classroom. The look of our student’s face was priceless. She loved talking and meeting her peers. The other students love meeting Naomi. She cried at first and hid under the table, because she did not know their names. We made a seating chart for her to learn the students’ names. When the student was able to return to school, her experience with the Hopecam helped her transition into the classroom better. She knew all the kids. She had already made a connection.”