Hunter Children's Research Foundation
Empowering discoveries that keep families happy and healthy


The Hunter Children’s Research Foundation (HCRF) raises funds for important research into children’s terminal and debilitating illnesses.
Powered by Passion, Driven by Impact
HCRF is a volunteer-led foundation committed to funding life-changing children’s medical research. As an auspice group of the Hunter Medical Research Institute, we have spent nearly three decades supporting local researchers tackling critical paediatric health challenges.
Our dedicated volunteers generously contribute their time, energy, and expertise, ensuring that every dollar raised is used effectively. This support not only advances medical breakthroughs but also helps researchers secure millions in national funding, amplifying their impact. Through global collaborations, HCRF plays a vital role in keeping the Hunter region at the forefront of pioneering advancements in children’s health.
OUR IMPACT
Making a difference in children's health
Without your support, many life-saving research projects would remain just ideas on a shelf, never reaching their full potential.
That’s why every dollar raised by HCRF fuels groundbreaking projects and supports world-leading research into conditions like asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and sleep disorders – the types of illnesses that can turn any family’s world upside down.
HCRF isn’t just writing cheques; they’re funding dreams. They provide researchers with the tools they need, working with research experts who bring these dreams to life, and offer grants that enable projects capable of changing the lives of children and their families across the globe.
75+
CHILDREN’S RESEARCH GRANTS AWARDED
$2.65 MILLION+
RAISED FOR LIFE-CHANGING KIDS HEALTH RESEARCH
29
YEARS OF HCRF SUPPORT
Case Studies
Some of the important projects HCRF have helped to support.
3100+
PARTICIPATING DADS AND DAUGHTERS
380
EDUCATORS TRAINED
30
GOVERNMENT AND SPORTING PARTNERSHIPS
Help us champion kids health
HCRF is a generous fundraising partner of the Hunter Medical Research Institute. HCRF is authorised to raise funds on behalf of HMRI, and any money raised goes directly towards research supporting children and families in the Hunter New England region.
The close partnership between HCRF, HMRI and HNEkidshealth continues to make a real difference in the lives of families throughout the region
Every child deserves the chance for a full and healthy life.
Your support for HCRF not only helps continue the life-changing research here at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, but also gives support to families and children across our region.
Other ways to support HCRF
Your Support Makes a Difference
Every donation, no matter how large or small, brings us closer to our goal of improving the lives of children and families through life-changing health and medical research. Your generosity helps fund groundbreaking research that can transform the future of children’s health. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
ReaCH Stars
Become a part of our Research for Children’s Health Stars. A dedicated group of supporters who commit to giving regularly. Whether through a monthly or annual contribution.
By joining our ReaCH Stars, you receive special invites to our Grant Awards evening, our Community Awards and a tour through HMRI’s research labs to see firsthand the impact you are making.
Your commitment helps us provide consistent funding to support groundbreaking studies and create lasting change in the lives of children and their families.
Gift in will
Leaving a gift in your will is a profound and generous way to support Hunter Children’s Research Foundation and create a legacy with impact.
Leaving a gift in your will to HCRF means you’re not just making a difference today – you’re helping us keep the magic of research alive for generations to come! Your generosity will continue to bring hope, breakthroughs, and brighter futures for children. We’re truly grateful to those who choose to leave a gift in their will.
Fundraise
Whether you’re a community member, school group or business, anyone can fundraise to help us fund life-changing research for children in our community.
Partner with HCRF
Partner with HCRF by making a corporate donation, becoming an event partner, providing gifts or gifts-in-kind, including products or access to pro-bono services offering their expertise and time.
Events
Each year, we hold charity events to raise funds for our latest children’s health research projects.
We welcome all to attend or donate items towards this worthy cause.