The first day of school is around the corner. For the children of Sheffield Place, August 24th is the day that most return to the classroom. Like most kids, going back to school isn’t a priority. After all, who wants to say goodbye to the lazy days of summer? For homeless children, returning to school adds stressors to their lives that are not experienced by non-homeless children.
They are embarrassed because:
- they don’t have new clothing like the other children
- new school supplies and backpacks are too expensive and many arrive with nothing
They are afraid because:
- their mothers warn them to not tell anyone that they live at the shelter because the authorities might take them away from her
- classmates might make fun of them if they find out they are homeless
They are sad because:
- they know that their mother will not be able to give them money for field trips or special activities
- they will lose their school friends if they move again
School should be a safe place for all children but when you are homeless, school can be a source of fear and trauma. You can help change this for a homeless child by helping them start their first day of school right.
- $25 helps provide back-to-school supplies
- $50 helps provide a backpack full of school supplies
- $100 helps pay for field trips during the year
- $150 helps provide school clothing or uniforms
- $250 helps a homeless child feel like every other kid at school
To make a contribution to Sheffield Place today, please follow the link below and make a donation through PayPal. You don’t have to have a PayPal account to use this option. Other donation options include mailing a check to our offices or call to use your credit card. Your support of our children does not stop with a financial contribution. Please consider volunteering to be an afterschool tutor or helping during an evening children’s group.
With your support, we can help homeless children discover the joy of school!
http://www.sheffieldplace.org/donations.html
