It was founded in 1899, by a group of community-minded women who met in Toronto to discuss the creation of a "Home for Incurable Children".

As of 2005, the Centre provides hospital care, outpatient clinics, an integrated kindergarten school programme, assistive technology services and community outreach activities to about 7,000 children and youth with disabilities and their families each year.

The most common conditions are cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, muscular dystrophy, amputation, epilepsy, spina bifida, and cleft lip and palate, and a range of developmental disabilities including autism.

The Foundation was established in 1996 to inspire community interest and raise funds in support of children and youth with disabilities at Bloorview Kids Rehab.

Since 2006, the hospital is located on 150 Kilgour Road, between Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and the community of Leaside.