MADERA, Calif. – Valley Children’s Hospital announced Wednesday an $8 million gift from Table Mountain Rancheria to build a new inclusive playground on the hospital’s campus, a project leaders say will support healing and connection for children of all abilities.
“Every child deserves a place to play, grow, and heal, right here at home,” said Table Mountain Rancheria Tribal Chairperson Michelle Heredia-Cordova. “We are honored to support Valley Children’s Hospital in creating an inclusive play area where children of all abilities can come together, have fun and find comfort during their journey to wellness.”
Heredia-Cordova knows the importance that a playground like this will play at the hospital. Her daughter Alexandria had heart surgery at the hospital just weeks after she was born, and she regularly returns for checkups at the Willson Heart Center.
“Myself and other tribal members have made use of Valley Children’s, and I’m grateful for the service and the care that our children have received there,” she said. “And so that is a part of why we wanted to make this donation.”
The new play area will be constructed on the hospital’s south lawn. Features of the playground include elevated walkways and multi-level towers to ensure full access for children using mobility devices, inclusive climbing structures and slides, adaptive swings and sensory-friendly equipment.
“This gift is more than a playground – it’s a promise to our children that their well-being matters,” said Todd Suntrapak, President and CEO of Valley Children’s Healthcare. “We are deeply grateful to Table Mountain Rancheria for their vision, generosity and enduring partnership.”
Heredia-Cordova credited the dedication of employees at Table Mountain Rancheria and Table Mountain Casino Resort for making the gift possible.
“The spirit of giving is central to us as a people. We strengthen our community, and in turn, the community strengthens us,” Heredia-Cordova said. “And it creates a cycle that reflects our values here at Table Mountain.”
Valley Children’s Healthcare Foundation President Robert Saroyan said the donation reflects a longstanding relationship between the hospital and Table Mountain Rancheria.
“This is the kind of partnership that brings our mission to life,” Saroyan said. “This latest demonstration of their generosity will help create a space where children can experience joy and healing in ways that truly matter.”
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, adjacent to the hospital’s existing playground.
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