State Sen. James Skoufis and Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson announced funding to help Orange County hospitals enhance emergency care for children through a pediatric readiness initiative.

The funding, unveiled last week, alongside officials from Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall, Garnet Health, St. Anthony Community Hospital and Bon Secours Community Hospital, will support projects aimed at meeting New York’s pediatric readiness standards.

Skoufis secured $125,000 each for Garnet Health, St. Anthony Community Hospital and Bon Secours Community Hospital. At Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall, Skoufis contributed $63,000, with Jacobson adding $62,000 to support certification efforts.

The funding is tied to the state’s Always Ready for Children Pediatric Recognition Program, which encourages emergency departments to improve pediatric care. Certification requires participation in the National Pediatric Readiness Project, completion of a readiness assessment and the designation of a pediatric emergency care coordinator.

Thousands of children are treated in emergency departments across New York each year, many at community hospitals that see fewer than 10 pediatric patients daily. Officials said improved pediatric readiness is associated with significant reductions in mortality risk for critically ill and injured children.

“Pediatric ready emergency departments save lives,” Skoufis said, noting the investment will help ensure hospitals have the infrastructure needed to treat sick and injured children.

Jacobson said the funding is particularly important as hospitals face financial pressures, adding that it will help provide state-of-the-art treatment for children in the Newburgh area.

Hospital leaders said the funding will strengthen pediatric services and improve outcomes. Officials from Garnet Health and Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall said the initiative underscores a commitment to delivering high-quality, specialized care for children close to home.