Every day, Chris sat alone during recess, her thoughts a whirlwind of fear and sadness that no one else could see. At night, she cried quietly under her blanket, consumed by worries far too heavy for her small shoulders. Though her smile fooled most, inside she silently pleaded for someone to notice and help her.
Recent government cuts, totaling tens of billions – yes, BILLIONS – are dismantling school-based mental health programs, suicide prevention initiatives, and eliminating thousands of vital jobs at HHS that serve children and families. This is happening just as demand for mental health support has skyrocketed in the wake of the pandemic. Chris’s story is but one of many in our DMV neighborhoods.
These reductions are sure to silence voices already struggling to be heard.
To uphold our vision of a world where every child has access to the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive, we are hosting an evening dedicated to grant-making and recognizing those on the front lines of fulfilling our purpose.
We know you care about our precious children’s future, and we encourage you to show your support by standing with us, for them, on September 30.
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day on September 30, our invited guests include members of Congress, State elected officials, organizations Champions for Children are funding, and individuals whose relentless efforts have made better lives for children in our communities.
