Diabetes Foundation of the High Plains

OUR MISSION

The Diabetes Foundation of the High Plains exists to support children, teens, and young adults living with Type 1 diabetes across the Texas Panhandle. We help families by providing education, connection, and financial assistance at every stage—from diagnosis through daily life.

Your gift helps us respond quickly when families need it most, and it keeps long-term support in place year-round.

OUR HISTORY

The Diabetes Foundation of the High Plains was founded in August 2014 through the support of the Will Rogers Range Riders and families across the Texas Panhandle affected by Type 1 diabetes.

The Foundation is rooted in the lifelong work of Dr. Alison Lunsford and Sue Rankin, two local leaders who saw the need for stronger community support, better access to care, and resources for families managing Type 1.

Since the beginning, DFHP has focused on meeting practical needs—funding research, providing direct assistance, and creating meaningful programs like Camp New Day. Every program we offer exists because local families needed help, and local people stepped up to make it happen.

CAMP NEW DAY

Camp New Day is the heart of our work. It’s a local, week-long summer camp for kids with Type 1 diabetes from West Texas and Eastern New Mexico.

This is where kids get to feel normal. They count carbs together, treat lows together, and never feel like the odd one out. Camp builds confidence, friendships, and lifelong skills for managing life with T1D.

We never turn a child away. Most of our campers attend on full scholarship, and your donation helps cover the cost of meals, medical supplies, trained counselors, and round-the-clock care.

EMERGENCY RELIEF AND EVERYDAY SUPPORT

Diabetes is expensive. When a family gets hit with the cost of insulin, test strips, glucose monitors, and ongoing care, the bills stack up fast. We provide emergency relief for families who are overwhelmed by the immediate and ongoing costs of managing T1D.

We also offer support beyond camp. This includes help for newly diagnosed families, scholarships for graduating seniors, community events, and connections with others who understand this life.

INVESTING IN LOCAL PEDIATRIC DIABETES CARE

We partner with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center to improve access to specialized care right here in Amarillo. With help from DFHP, the region now has:

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  A pediatric endocrinology program

  
  


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  A dedicated research nurse and child psychologist

  
  


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  Expanded support for long-term emotional and medical care

  
  

Every dollar you give stays in the Panhandle and supports children in our own communities.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

By giving through The Panhandle Gives, your donation goes further thanks to the Amplification Fund. Your gift helps kids with Type 1 diabetes build confidence, connect with others, and live well.

Make your donation today. Every gift counts.