Mary (10) lives with her mother and three siblings after the tragic death of their father and she has been struggling with self-esteem issues and teasing due to her height. Although her mother works hard to support the family, financial constraints left Mary unable to afford supplies for a class project where students create and "sell" products. Without the needed materials, she felt excluded and feared others would find out about her family’s financial difficulties. Alice’s Kids provided a gift card, allowing the student to purchase the items and fully participate in the project.
"Mary was able to purchase the items required to make her products. Her whole business was about scented ‘genie bottles’ that a person could shake or smell when they experience negative feelings. She used food coloring, sparkles, and a variety of scents in her jars. You should have seen the smile on her face while creating her products in school! It was a complete creative process for her. She even named different styles of genie bottles after different people in the classroom that they represented. She sold out of every single product!"
-School Social Worker
Fairfax County VA
Audrey (9) is a resilient student who has faced significant trauma, including witnessing her aunt's overdose, her sister being placed in state custody, and the loss of a primary caregiver. Despite these challenges, she remains positive and engaged at school, where she finds comfort and community. She has been part of the cheer squad for two seasons, but cannot afford a third season. This year, Alice's Kids provided funding for her to join her school's cheer squad.
"This assistance has played a key role in boosting her self-esteem and helping her build friendships. Audrey excelled during the season, even performing a double back-walkover at a lacrosse game. Her involvement in cheerleading has given her joy, confidence, and valuable memories."
-School Psychologist
Frederick MDAmy (17) is very quiet, smart and compassionate. Although she is shy most of the time, she has a unique sense of style she takes pride in, and has made several friends through clubs like the Chick-Fil-A leadership academy, advanced chorus, and the Academic Decathlon. This year, her family cannot afford the fees for the Academic Decathlon club. Alice's Kids came through and provided the necessary financial assistance.
"Amy earned a bronze medal in Literature at the state competition. Being able to participate significantly impacted Amy's overall academic performance. This experience has helped her believe in herself and develop new friendships, easing the anxiety caused by her family's dysfunction. The transformation from a timid student to an accomplished medalist is truly inspiring."
-Student Advocate
Villa Rica GAShelanie (13) could not afford a band fee, which would have prevented her from participating in key performances. Thanks to Alice's Kids, the fee was covered, allowing the student to perform alongside her classmates in the Band University Interscholastic League competition, where the band earned a prestigious Sweepstakes award—the first time in over 20 years.
“This support not only made Shelanie a part of a historic achievement but also allowed her to participate in end-of-year activities like a trip to a trampoline park. As an 8th grader, this generosity made her final year at the school especially memorable."
-Communities In Schools Advocate
Lubbock TXYesinia (16) lives with her single mother, who supports their family by working for Uber. Despite covering basic needs, her mother is unable to afford extras, such as Yesinia’s $75 Harvard Pre-College Program application fee. Yesinia is a standout student with a perfect 4.0 GPA, leadership roles in her school, and aspirations to attend Harvard Law School. Alice's Kids stepped in and paid the application fee.
"The student was very excited to receive the money to pay for her application for the Harvard Summer Program. We found out that the student has been accepted to the Harvard Secondary School Program with full financial aid support from the College. The student will be spending four weeks this summer on campus completing a summer course in either Law or Political Science and earning college credit! “
-Site Coordinator, Communities in Schools
Los Angeles CAMelinda (11) faced significant personal challenges, including her father losing custody of her and her younger brother. She has taken on a leadership role in caring for her younger brother. Despite these hardships, she remained positive and committed to her education. With the help of Alice's Kids, she received much-needed school supplies.
“Melinda has gained the reassurance that people care about her success. This support contributed to her improved academic performance, as she went from having several failing grades to passing all her classes. The assistance from Alice's Kids made a meaningful difference in her life, empowering her to stay focused and succeed."
-Teacher
Los Angeles CA