Let’s Partner to Transform Lives
All Fresh Start Medical Care is Provided at Absolutely No Cost
If you have a patient that lacks the resources (insurance, financial or geographic barriers), we’re here to help every step of the way.
At Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, we believe that no child should go without the medical care they need — regardless of insurance status or financial situation. Since 1991, we’ve been committed to providing free reconstructive surgeries and comprehensive care to children and teens with physical deformities caused by birth defects, accidents, abuse or illness.
What We Provide
We treat patients in need from across the country and beyond. All care is 100% free for families. There are no hidden costs or bills — ever.
For each patient and their accompanying parent or guardian, we provide:
- Airfare to and from one of our partner hospitals
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
- Lodging during treatment and recovery
- Meals and support throughout their visit
Our Partner Hospitals
- San Diego, California (Rady Children’s Hospital)
- San Antonio, Texas (University Health)
- Chicago, Illinois (Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago)
- Worcester, Massachusetts (UMass Memorial Medical Center)
How We Care
Fresh Start focuses on reconstructive and plastic surgery procedures that restore function and/or appearance. We work with top volunteer medical professionals to provide highly specialized care for eligible patients.
- Cleft lip and palate
- Birthmarks (e.g., hemangiomas, port-wine stains, hairy nevus)
- Microtia and other ear deformities, including otoplasty
- Craniofacial abnormalities
- Scars or deformities from trauma, dog bites or abuse
- Syndactyly of the hands or toes
- Dental and orthodontic deformities
- Other conditions deemed reconstructive in nature
How to Refer
- The patient’s family
- A treating physician or surgeon
- A social worker
- A legal guardian or advocate
- A letter of insurance denial, or
- Documentation showing the family would face financial hardship due to high co-pays or out-of-pocket costs
Our team will follow up directly with the family to coordinate care if the child qualifies or let them know the condition is out of our scope.
New to Referring to Fresh Start? Let’s Connect.
Are you a first-time referring provider or interested in learning more about our program?
We’d love to schedule a 15–20 minute video presentation to:
- Walk you through our referral process
- Discuss the conditions we treat
- Answer any questions you may have
Complete the short form below to schedule a video presentation or reach out directly to Jen@FreshStart.org to get started.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
No child should fall through the cracks. Your referral could change a life — and a future.
Thank you for helping us ensure that every child gets the Fresh Start they deserve.
Fresh Start is funded by donations, grants and corporate sponsorships. We do not accept payment or insurance/government reimbursement. All medical personnel generously donate their time and talent.