Introduction
Toby Keith Inaugurates OK Kids Korral: A Dream Rooted in Compassion and Faith
In a deeply emotional moment at the official grand opening of OK Kids Korral—a free lodging facility for families with children undergoing cancer treatment—country music star Toby Keith shared the heartfelt and inspiring journey behind this special charitable project.
It all began with a heartbreaking story: Scott and Lena, close friends of Toby, had lost their child after a final attempt to save their life at St. Jude’s Hospital. Upon returning, they recalled that when they arrived at St. Jude’s, they didn’t need to bring anything—everything had already been provided. That powerful memory sparked something in Toby: Oklahoma needed a place like that. And that’s when the Toby Keith Foundation became more than a charitable fund—it became a mission, a calling from God.
“I told myself I wouldn’t visit the site until the grand opening because I wanted to feel what it would be like for a parent walking across the street from the hospital with their child, stepping into something magical,” Toby shared. “And what I saw today exceeded every expectation.”
OK Kids Korral isn’t just a shelter—it’s a “Disney World for kids in treatment”, a place where children don’t have to spend hours traveling for care. “Here, they can get treatment, walk across the street, and come back to a joyful, comforting place,” Toby said. “It’s like the Ritz-Carlton meets Disney World.”
Toby also issued a heartfelt call to the community: volunteers, donors, and anyone with a heart to help. “We need to keep this place running and fully supported. And who knows—maybe one day we’ll build another. But for now, let’s make sure this one thrives.”
With the soul of an artist and the heart of a humanitarian, Toby Keith has turned grief into hope—lighting a path for countless families fighting for their child’s life.