April 2020 Newsletter
Did you know that PHILLIPS Schools provide breakfast and lunch to our students? They depend on it. It is not unusual for us to have a student tell our staff that they did not have dinner the evening before. Over 50% of PHILLIPS Programs youth rely on attendance at school for breakfast and lunch.
Our youth need us now more than ever. They rely on the structure of school, the relationships they have with staff, and the security that brings them, along with their peers. Fortunately, we can provide services via distance earning This not only includes educational instruction, but vital social, emotional and behavioral support is being provided by our array of dedicated staff.
However, the impact goes far beyond the changes in their daily routine. While curriculum can be shared via distance learning and counseling can be provided remotely, many children and youth are experiencing food insecurity.
That is why we launched our grocery gift card appeal on March 23.
Thanks to a challenge grant from Dr. Sally A. Sibley, our community responded. We have provided grocery gift cards to the families who need it the most.
The need is immediate, and it is continuing.
One mom wrote to her counselor upon learning she would be receiving the first card:
Ensuring every student succeeds is our highest priority. As our families face unprecedented difficulties, we must do all we can to support them.
It is critical to ensure that the nutritional needs of food insecure children are met. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to assist PHILLIPS Programs children and families during this difficult time.
To contribute please click HERE.
PHILLIPS Programs for Children and Families is a private, non-profit organization serving the complex needs of children and youth living with cognitive, emotional and/or behavioral challenges in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area. Through excellence in specialized education, community programs and individualized support services, we provide our children and families every advantage to ensure they develop to achieve their greatest individual success. Their potential is our commitment.