School has just let out and you are probably looking forward to happy, sun-filled days at the beach or a relaxing summer vacation. But here at Friends of Karen, we're already planning our Back to School program, with the goal of providing new school supplies and clothing for more than 600 children this September.
We are working with many more families with catastrophically ill children this year, which means our already limited resources are being stretched even thinner. With rising fuel and food prices, our families are having a difficult time making ends meet. When it's already impossible to keep up with medical and household expenses, they are overwhelmed with the added cost of school supplies, new sneakers and clothing - not to mention the effort it takes to get them.
Last year we weren't able to help all our families with clothing. This year, we've pledged to give every child (all 600) a $25 gift card toward clothing, as well as school supplies. That's where you can help. We desperately need gift cards to Target, Old Navy, Sears, Macy's, Kohl's and the Gap. If you prefer not to shop, we would be so grateful for contributions to underwrite gift cards and school supplies. We'll shop on your behalf!
Remember how wonderful it was to head back to school with a new outfit, crisp notebooks, and freshly sharpened pencils? Let's make that joy a reality for the special children Friends of Karen helps. Please partner with us.
Click here for a list of needed items.
* Friends of Karen is dedicated to providing emotional, financial and advocacy support to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. We have served children throughout the New York metropolitan area for more than twenty-five years. Friends of Karen serves children from birth to 21 who are diagnosed with any life-threatening illness. Find out more about Friends of Karen at
www.friendsofkaren.org.
