Kids With Type 1 Diabetes Can Bring Their Stories to Washington at Children's Congress 2027
Children and teens living with type 1 diabetes have an opportunity to tell national lawmakers what life with T1D is really like—and why progress matters to their families. Applications are now open for Breakthrough T1D’s 2027 Children’s Congress, taking place June 28–July 1, 2027, in Washington, D.C. Youth ages 4–17 at the time of the event are eligible to apply.
Held every two years, Children’s Congress brings together more than 160 young people with T1D. Selected delegates represent all 50 states and Washington, D.C., meeting with members of Congress to share their experiences and advocate for support of diabetes research.
Those conversations give lawmakers a chance to hear directly from the children affected by their decisions. A young person’s account of managing diabetes at school, during sports or away from home can help make the need for research feel personal and immediate.
The experience also offers something families may value just as much: connection. Delegates meet other young people living with T1D, spend time with T1D role models and develop leadership skills. For a child who rarely encounters another student with diabetes, being surrounded by peers with similar experiences could be a meaningful part of the trip.
Here are the key details for families considering an application:
Who can apply: Children and teens living with type 1 diabetes who will be ages 4–17 throughout the event. Previous Children’s Congress delegates cannot attend again.
Application deadline: November 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawai‘i Standard Time.
Travel support: Breakthrough T1D covers travel costs for the selected delegate and one parent or guardian.
Selection notices: Applicants can expect a decision no later than mid-February 2027. Participation is competitive; the organization typically receives around 1,000 applications for approximately 160 delegate spots.
The application asks about the child’s interests, experiences with T1D and community involvement. Families will also need a recent color headshot and a one- to two-page letter written for the child’s U.S. representative. The letter should explain the applicant’s experience with diabetes, why research and treatment technology matter to them, and their hopes for the future. It is submitted with the application, rather than mailed to Congress.
Allow plenty of time: Breakthrough T1D says the application may take more than an hour to complete. Except for very young applicants, children are expected to complete it themselves. The organization also prohibits using AI tools to complete any portion of the application, including the letter.
Families should know that serving as a delegate involves a commitment beyond the Washington visit. Participants must attend the full event and complete activities before, during and afterward, with continued involvement in local advocacy encouraged.
For Arizona-area families who want to learn more, the Desert West Chapter is hosting a virtual information session on November 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Mountain Time. Past delegates from the Desert West and Nevada chapters will share their experiences, and families can learn about applying and what to expect in Washington. Registration is available through the chapter’s event page.
At Direct Diabetes, we’re sharing this opportunity to help families connect with programs that support young people living with T1D. Families can review the requirements and apply through Breakthrough T1D’s Children’s Congress website before the November 30 deadline.
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