Sugar

Smart

Pals

Connecting kids and making new friends, one letter at a time.

Sugar Smart Pals is our special pen pal program designed to help kids with Type 1 Diabetes connect, share, and support each other — one letter at a time. We match children with similar ages and interests so they can build friendships, exchange stories about life with diabetes, and remind each other they’re not alone on this journey. Writing letters gives kids a fun, personal way to express themselves, build confidence, and feel part of a caring community.

Who Can Join?

The Sugar Smart Pals program is open to children living with Type 1 diabetes, as well as their siblings and families. We know that diabetes affects the whole family, and we believe everyone deserves connection and support. Whether your child is newly diagnosed or has been managing diabetes for years, or if they’re a sibling who wants to connect with someone who understands — this program is here to help them build friendships, share experiences, and feel a little less alone.

How It Works

Once you sign up, we’ll carefully match your child with a pen pal who shares similar interests and experiences. From there, it’s up to them — they can connect through handwritten letters, emails, or a mix of both. They can write as often as they like, at their own pace. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive space where kids and families can share, encourage each other, and build lasting friendships.

Your child’s privacy and safety are our top priorities. All information shared with Sugar Smart Kids is kept confidential and used only to help match pen pals within the program. We carefully review each sign-up to ensure a safe and supportive environment for every participant. Personal details are never shared publicly, and families always have control over how they choose to communicate. Our goal is to create a positive, trusted space where kids and families can connect with confidence.

Ready to join?

Just fill out the form on this page to sign up and get matched with your Sugar Smart Pal.

Child's Name

First Name

Last Name

Child's Age

Parent/Guardian Name

First Name

Last Name

Parent/Guardian Email

Parent/Guardian Phone Number

(###)

###

####

Mailing Address

Address 1

Address 2

City

State/Province

Zip/Postal Code

Country

Child's interests and hobbies?

Tell us about your diabetes journey.

Preferred pen pal gender?

Any special needs or considerations?

Consent

I give permission for my child to participate in the Sugar Smart Pals penpal program. I understand that my child’s information will be shared only with their assigned penpal match and will be used solely for the purpose of this program.

I give permission for photos or feedback shared to be used on social media or promotional materials.

❊Additional Programs

More to explore

Looking for a different program? Check out our other support options and find the perfect fit for your child and family.

Care Packs

Our Care Pack program delivers fun, comforting supplies to help Type 1 kids feel supported ad confident.

Sweet Support Circle

Our parent support group, offering connection, shared experiences, and community support.