Summer should be filled with childhood innocence.
For hungry children in crisis, that innocence is replaced by fear.
Sarah (13) and Maggie (7) arrived at the home of their Thornwell foster parents, confused, starving, and malnourished. With school out for summer and without the security of daily school breakfast and lunch, the sisters didn’t know when or if they would eat again. They’d faced significant neglect for months, and they hadn’t eaten a full meal in days.
Sarah was caught stealing stored food from a neighbor’s garage, which finally sparked an urgent response to get the girls to safety.
Summer should NOT be scary, but without the assurance that their basic needs will be met, Sarah and Maggie’s trauma is compounded. With your help, this doesn’t have to happen. Thornwell helps to provide nutritious meals and safe, caring homes for children like Sarah and Maggie.
The girls have a long road ahead. Sarah hoards and hides food, tucking it away for her and her sister. Maggie eats until she is sick, sometimes out of trash cans. Despite their foster family’s loving and nurturing support, the sisters still cannot comprehend that there will be a next meal. They urgently need our help!
Together, we can respond to the critical needs of children like Sarah and Maggie. You can help now and ensure children can find freedom from the fear of food insecurity!
A loving gift can ensure these sisters stay together during their foster care journey, which is often critical to children’s healing. Along the way, they’ll have access to mental health therapies and medical support dedicated to trauma recovery from disordered eating and malnourishment. Sarah can find rest knowing she and her sister are fed – no more hiding and hoarding. Maggie can learn to feel satisfied knowing she’ll always have access to healthy foods.
YOU can make that happen.
That’s the power of your donation!
When children like these sisters are nourished and feel safe, they’ll have a summer focused on swimming lessons, hiking trips, and replacing scary memories with happy ones. Sarah and Maggie deserve the ability to breathe deeply, smile, and belly laugh this summer.
Will you join me today in giving to ensure that Sarah, Maggie, and kids like them have a carefree summer far away from fear and hopelessness? Your gift affirms that these sisters can find peace knowing they are safe and cared for daily.
Thank you for being compassionate and committed to supporting healthy futures for children like Sarah and Maggie! We praise God for you.
For children and families,
Reverend Myron W. Wilkins, President and CEO
P.S. Please consider a one-time or monthly gift. Your gift will make a difference. It’s easy to donate at Thornwell.org/give!
*Names, likenesses, and identifying details of youth in Thornwell’s care have been changed to safeguard their privacy.*