our impact by the numbers
success stories
It's a wonderful feeling when our efforts make a brighter day for a child in care. Along the way, we've kept track of how we're helping, and how much. We've also collected some more personal thank-yous from children in care and the amazing social workers and staff that work closely with them. We're delighted to share some of our success and their feedback with you.
300+ Wishes Granted
Every child deserves the opportunity to dream big. When we started Connect With a Wish, our first priority was to give every child in local foster care a wish. From tuba lessons to theme park visits, it's all about making memories.
1000s of Fully Stocked Backpacks
At our Back to School Event, we give out a backpack to every child in foster care, tailored with all the specific school supplies they need for the upcoming year - everything from binders to colored pencils, graphing calculators to crayons.
$20,000+ in Tuition Aid
Previously, we raised tens of thousands of dollars to pay college tuition costs for youth in or leaving foster care. We worked with state legislators to ensure room, board, and tuition are now 100% covered for Virginia youth in foster care.
10,000s of Christmas Gifts
We give out high-quality Christmas gifts to over 250 children in foster care each year. We love adding some extra joy and excitement to these children's holidays. The best part? It's all sourced from generous community members like you.
100+ Prom Nights Prepared
Our annual Prom Event gives out beautiful dresses, shoes, accessories, and gift cards for a dinner night out. It's all to help teen girls in foster care get ready for their big night. Seven years later, we're proud of each and every event.
Hundreds of Lives Touched
Over 300 children can be in Hampton Roads foster care at any time. They all need love and support. We are privileged and honored to work with these incredible children and the devoted city staff and foster parents raising them.
"You have put smiles on the faces of our children in foster care, as well as made our jobs easier. Thank you for being a champion for our kids."
"Thank you for providing us with art camp. I learned how to use an air brush, make beautiful spray paint art, and pottery. Also, thank you for surf camp. I loved it!"
"Our kids had the best time [on the field trip] and are still talking about it. It was and is incredibly kind for you guys to take such good care of them."
"You have touched my heart and truly blessed our family with a triple stroller. I will be forever grateful for this gift. Having three children under the age of 4 can sometimes be challenging. With the stroller, it takes away a little bit of the challenge."
"You have put smiles on the faces of our children in foster care, as well as made our jobs easier. Thank you for being a champion for our kids."
"Thank you for the trip to summer camp! It was so fun!"
"So proud of all you do for foster children. Keep up the great work"
"I just wanted to say thank you for the guitar and all its equipment... I also appreciate the Logan's card!"
"Thank you for..."
