​On York's biggest day of giving, we ask for you to support Children's Home of York and our mission to help some of the most vulnerable children in York County.

Last updated in 2008, the kitchen is in disrepair - having broken cabinets and appliances, hindering our ability to support the children in our care to the best of our abilities. Not only would a new kitchen provide basic needs for the 13 young men that live at our Independent house, but it also provides a creative outlet and another opportunity to learn life skills. One of these young men is Thomas.

When Thomas was placed at the IL Program, his only goal was to "get out of placement." He shared that over the last year of his life, everything had spiraled out of control. He acted out of character, constantly fighting with his family, eventually needing police intervention. Thomas reported that he had thoughts of suicide because he didn't know how to get back on track. With the support of staff at George Street, Thomas was empowered to plan for his future for the first time. Thomas laid out goals for the next year and then development smaller objectives to help achieve his big dreams. He first set sights on graduating high school, getting a job, saving money, and participating in counseling to "address his demons."

Within six months, Thomas had a steady job at a local restaurant, formed a relationship with a supportive therapist and counseling center, and obtained the credits required for graduation. He participated in life skills groups to develop the skills necessary to transition successfully into adulthood, including cooking. The George Street residence provides a full kitchen with all the tools to make healthy, delicious meals. Thomas then set his sights on discharge from the program. He met with his family and his probation officer to understand his options, and chose to look for an apartment close to his job. He created a budget and, within six months of graduation, saved a significant amount of money and signed the lease for his own place. On the day of his discharge, exactly one year from when he first arrived, Thomas shared that he could now take on any challenge in his life thanks to the IL Program at George Street.

Of this large undertaking, your support will immediately replace the stove - which only has one working burner - and provide a new chest freezer. There is also plans to replace the cabinets, ceiling tiles, and cookware. Other upgrades would include the electrical in the room, as table top appliances can't be used simultaneously due to aging lines.

Please consider supporting Children's Home of York during Give Local 2023 to build a new kitchen for our children in need.