Chai Lifeline’s guiding principles are: -That seriously ill children need and deserve as happy and normal a childhood as possible. -That illness affects each member of the family. -That the well-being of an ill child is impacted by the well-being of his or her family. -That pediatric illness can have a devastating financial effect on families. With this in mind, Chai Lifeline strives to: -Find ways to bring joy to the lives of our young patients and their families through creative, innovative, and effective family-centered programs, activities, and services. -Engender hope and optimism in children, families, and communities. -Educate and involve communities in caring for ill children and their families. -Provide unparalleled support throughout the child’s illness, recovery, and beyond. -Offer all services free of charge to ensure that every family has access to the programs it needs. -Embody the ideals of compassion, kindness, and caring for others inherent in Jewish culture and life.