The Sunshine Kids Foundation was established in Houston, Texas, in March of 1982, as a tax exempt 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization designated to provide positive group activities and emotional support for children who are diagnosed with cancer. The foundation, assisted by volunteers, provides a variety of sports and cultural activities, free of charge, for children who are receiving cancer treatments in hospitals across the United States, including the Hawaiian Islands, Mexico, Canada, and Europe.

Prior to establishing The Sunshine Kids Foundation, Rhoda Tomasco, Founder and Executive Director, worked for two years as a pediatric volunteer in a cancer hospital in Houston. She met many children who were experiencing depression and loneliness during their long hospital treatments. It was the vision of Ms. Tomasco to establish The Sunshine Kids Foundation, thereby giving these children the opportunity to participate in fun activities which would promote a feeling of self-worth and personal accomplishment. All programs would be provided, free of charge, for children who are receiving treatment in hospitals located in the Houston area and across the United States.