Topeka Shriners Offer Free Clinics for Children with Orthopedic Needs | WIBW

TOPEKA, Kan. – Children in Topeka and surrounding areas with orthopedic or muscular conditions have access to free medical screenings through a program offered by the Arab Shriners of Topeka. The screenings, available for children ages 1 to 18, aim to connect families with specialized care regardless of their financial circumstances.

The Topeka chapter of the Arab Shriners, established in 1932, hosts these clinics annually. During the screenings, an in-house physician evaluates children and guides them toward appropriate treatment options. An additional clinic is scheduled for June in Emporia, Kansas, expanding the reach of this vital service.

For families unable to attend the clinics, the Shriners Hospital system provides direct access to referral nurses who can assist with navigating the system. Information about contacting the Shriners Hospital system is available on their website.

John Sidwell, a Shriner member and director of public relations for the Topeka Chapter, emphasized the organization’s philanthropic mission. “Our goal is to get as many kids as we can into the Shrine system that need help, and get them fixed up, whether they can afford it or not,” he said. This commitment to accessible care is central to the Shriners’ work.

The Shriners Children’s Hospital system specializes in a range of pediatric orthopedic conditions. These can include scoliosis and other spine abnormalities, injuries sustained through sports or trauma, limb deformities, and conditions related to cerebral palsy. The initial screening clinic serves as a crucial first step in identifying children who could benefit from the specialized care offered by the Shriners.

The screening process involves gathering family information, which is then reviewed for further assessment. If a child is accepted into the Shriners system, families receive not only medical care but also assistance with logistical challenges. The Shriners provide transportation support, covering expenses like airfare, gas, or arranging volunteer drivers to ensure children can access the care they need.

Funding for these services relies heavily on donations. A recent fundraising effort, a BINGO night organized by Berryton Elementary School, demonstrates community support for the Shriners’ mission. Kyrstin Bervert, principal of Berryton Elementary, explained that the school sought a way to support a local organization and chose the Shriners due to their impactful work. The BINGO night, held on February 19, 2026, included a $10 donation to play, a meal option, and opportunities to meet Shrine Clowns and view the organization’s vehicles.

The free screening clinic was held from 10 a.m. To noon on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Topeka Arab Shrine Temple. Appointments were available by calling 785-438-7111, but walk-ins were also welcomed.

The impact of the Shriners’ work extends beyond the medical treatments provided. Olivia Johnson, a two-year patient and spokesperson for the organization, highlighted the broader importance of supporting the Shriners. “Even if you don’t have any kids, if you want to find a good organization to donate to, this is a wonderful place, and they need it the most,” she said.

Sidwell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the profound effect of helping even a single child. “If we pick up one child, then it’s a great day, because we are helping kids,” he stated. The dedication of the Shriners and the positive impact on the children they serve are evident in their ongoing efforts.

The Shriners’ commitment to pediatric care is driven by a deep sense of compassion. As Johnson observed, “You can just see on their faces how much they love the kids and how much they want to help them.” This dedication underscores the organization’s unwavering focus on improving the lives of children with orthopedic and muscular conditions.