***October 3rd Update: Thank you to the 11 donors who have made gifts in support of the students at the Overlake Specialty School! Please help us spread the word about this campaign by hitting the “Share” button and posting about it on your social networks.

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Joey, age 8, had been doing well at Overlake Specialty School when mom was unexpectedly taken into legal custody. An older sister took over the care of Joey and his brothers, but he missed his mom.

Joey’s family had other challenges as well. They needed money for food to get them by until other support systems could kick in. Joey’s sneakers were falling apart on his feet. His clothes were too small. He stopped speaking in school, resorting to hand and face gestures to communicate with staff. It was clear that mom’s absence and the family’s struggles were impacting his mental health and stability.

OSS staff sprang into action.

With the help of our generous donors, we were able to provide a gift card for the family to purchase food. The OSS team took Joey shopping for new clothes to help him enjoy his summer. He got new sneakers and his first pair of swim trunks. With his new clothing and accessories, Joey started participating more. He reported that the shoes helped him to run faster and play harder. It was clear that these small clothing items boosted his self-esteem significantly.

Now, despite mom’s ongoing absence in the home, Joey regularly comes to school in clean clothing that he changes every day. His hygiene has improved. Best of all, he’s talking again.

Thanks to support from donors like you, we had the resources to take immediate action and make a noteworthy impact in the life of a child. We’ve seen this again and again—children who feel cared for and valued come to care for and value themselves. Your gift today will do that for another child.

Thank you.