Betty Ford Center Expands Children’s Program Amid Rising Need

The Betty Ford Center is expanding its children’s services as the number of young people affected by addiction continues to grow.

According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly one in four children in the U.S. lives with a parent struggling with a substance use disorder — a reality local leaders say is becoming more visible in the Coachella Valley.

At the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, staff say addiction impacts the entire family, including children who often carry confusion, shame, and emotional stress. Their specialized children’s program is designed to help young people better understand addiction, build resilience, and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Program leaders say one of the most powerful aspects is showing kids they are not alone and that their parent’s addiction is not their fault.

Founded by former First Lady Betty Ford, the center has long focused on family-centered healing. The children’s program has since expanded beyond the desert to additional locations in Colorado and Minnesota.

However, the program is not covered by insurance and relies heavily on donor support to continue serving families.

Staff say their goal is to reach even more children nationwide, providing them with tools to cope and helping families heal.