In this video Grace and John Gallagher speak eloquently about finding Families as Allies, learning how to advocate for their child, and as a 
result of working with our organization being able to give back to their community by advocating with and for other families. They are an example of how we hope to impact and give back to communities all across the state.
Today is #Giving Tuesday. I hope that the Gallaghers story inspires you to give generously so that families across the state can support each other and work together on behalf of our children. Providing support to one family like the Gallaghers through Families as Allies for one year costs about $1,000 and means more children stay in school and more parents remain employed. Recent budget hearings revealed that providing institutional care to that same child for one year costs $60,000. Please join with us and invest your dollars in solutions that keep families together and allow children to grow up at home. You can donate here.
The most important way each of us can give today and every day is by welcoming ALL families, including those whose children have mental health challenges, without judgment or blame. Mental health problems are common and real, yet families often don’t seek help for their children because of the stigma associated with mental illness. We also urge each of you to work with us to make sure the right kinds of services and supports are in place to help children with mental health challenges. Follow us on Facebook to stay current on these opportunities.
Please take a few minutes to learn more about Families as Allies on our website. If you are a parent or caregiver of a child with a mental health challenge, you can respond to a survey and let us know more about how we can support each other. We ask that all of you link your Kroger and Amazon accounts to Families as Allies so that families benefit each time you make a purchase.
Thank you for partnering with Families as Allies to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their potential and be successful. Nothing could be more important. I appreciate each and every one of you.
Joy Hogge, Executive Director