Why We Exist
Traveling for a child’s medical care means leaving everything familiar behind—your home, your routine, your sense of normalcy. For families coming to Duke Children’s, the distance between hospital and home can add an impossible weight to an already unbearable time.
The idea for Harper’s Home was sparked by Harper’s own incredible journey and fight against cancer. During treatment, being near the hospital and together as a family made all the difference.
Families shouldn’t have to choose between staying together and close to care. We provide private, fully-equipped homes for free, so families can focus on what matters most.
“It felt like a weight off of our shoulders knowing that we had a place we could temporarily call home. I also cried being able to have my dogs back with us after 7 long months.”
— A Harper’s Home family
What We Offer
Private homes. Not a shared facility. A fully private home—no shared hallways or common areas. The home is the family’s for the entire duration of their stay.
Always accessible. We provide free, private short-term, pet-friendly housing. Families are referred through Duke Children’s and welcomed with everything they need.
For the whole family, pets included. Because a child heals better when their family is whole, rested, and together.
With your help, here’s what we can do
Together we can help more kids like Harper stay with their families while they battle cancer and other potentially fatal illnesses.
Your gift gives a family a home
| Gift | Impact |
|---|---|
| $100 | A welcome kit with toiletries, snacks, and cleaning supplies |
| $250 | A month of utilities for one private home |
| $2,500 | A month of rest for a family in crisis |
| $4,000 | Fully furnishes a two-bedroom home |
| $300,000 | Fully funds a private cottage to keep families together |
Get a hello from Harper
Join our community to receive updates on our impact, upcoming events, new ways to get involved, and hear directly from Harper, our Chief Inspiration Officer.
“I’m so grateful you’re here! I’d love to share what’s happening and how you can help us build Harper’s Home.”
— Harper, age 12, Founder and Chief Inspiration Officer
Hellos from Harper with news, events, and volunteer opportunities.
Harper’s Story in the News
Harper’s story and the founding of Harper’s Home have been featured in local and national media. Learn more about how we’re supporting families during their child’s medical journey.
