Chatan (17) is Lakota Sioux who has spent much of his life in foster care due to severe abuse and neglect in his biological family. Despite his complex trauma and some developmental challenges, he is determined to be independent, expressing pride in his Native American heritage and a deep desire to prepare for adulthood. Alice's Kids stepped in to help him pursue his dream of starting a summer lawn care business by providing him with funds for essential equipment like an electric weed eater, gardening tools, and knee pads.
“I took Chatan shopping at Home Depot for supplies for his lawn care business and he made a beeline for the power tools. Then he got a combination weed whacker /leaf blower set that was affordable and easy to use. He decided to offer the first job free, to show what a great job he can do and get some practice. Chatan’s foster parents are happy to help him get started, supervise, and make sure he's being safe with his new equipment. Thank you so much to Alice's Kids for helping him with his business goals. This business will not only give him the opportunity to earn and save money for his future but also grant him the invaluable gift of pride and self-sufficiency.”
- Social Caseworker
Fountain COTen students from a Chicago middle school Model United Nations team faced a major hurdle getting to a Model UN conference in New York City—they lacked the necessary carry-on luggage. Alice's Kids stepped in by providing a $500 Amazon gift card, allowing the purchase of rolling carry-on bags for the 7 female and 3 male students.
“Our students had a phenomenal time in New York City at the International Model United Nations Conference. Your contribution ensured that every student was fully prepared for the experience, making the trip a more meaningful and empowering experience. The impact was immediate, giving the students the confidence they needed to succeed.”
- Program Director
Chicago IL
Carla (14) dreams of attending Stanford to study psychology or medicine. She won a writing contest on the impact of violence and was awarded a trip to Washington, D.C. However, while the trip was funded, meals during travel days and lunches were not covered, and despite support from teachers and the County Adult Office with essentials like luggage and toiletries, the family still needed hProbation elp with food. Alice's Kids provided Visa gift cards to ensure the student and her mother had enough for meals.
"The student was very excited and appreciative of the gift card. It was a great relief for her to know that she and her mom would not have to worry about meals for the trip. This assistance allowed the student to focus fully on the experience, rather than stressing over basic needs. The student enjoyed the trip without worry, participating in unique opportunities and meeting influential figures.”
- Family Care Coordinator
San Antonio TXEmily (8) is from a blended family and has trouble focusing in school, often having difficulty sitting still. She used to flip tables and clear a classroom in preschool. She has recently been diagnosed on the spectrum with ODD and ADHD. Alice’s Kids provided an $80 grant for sensory seating to provide her a calming place.
"The new sensory seating has allowed Emily to engage and participate in all her classes, including art and music. Teachers and parents have noticed remarkable changes. Emily is now smiling and enthusiastic about school. This support has not only improved her focus but has also transformed her learning experience, making her excited to learn for the first time."
- Program Director
Hubbel MIEmily (13) recently lost her father to gun violence and she has been struggling mentally. She was playing with her friend’s IPhone and was intrigued by the camera function. Her Mom wanted to buy her a small camera but couldn’t afford it.
Our Impact: “I spoke with the mother and she was beyond grateful that she could give the camera to her daughter. It was part of a small birthday gathering. The girl had two friends overnight and they were up all night taking pictures and laughing. The girl is now constantly snapping pictures and hanging them on her wall. She is now talking about being a professional photographer!”
- School Counselor Detroit MI