It has been over one year since the beginning of the pandemic that has challenged us all. With your help, Wayfinder never stopped going the extra mile to ensure that children and families have what they need to make it through these trying times.
In the midst of stress and difficulty, I am so grateful for all our donors, staff and supporters. Their commitment to our mission has never wavered! I want to tell you about just a few of the moments that have warmed my heart:
Donor L.T. gave his COVID relief check to Wayfinder. L.T. wrote,
“I don’t need it as much as the folks you have been helping for so many years.” I was so moved by L.T.’s incredible generosity! What an impact this gift will make for families and children in need.
I heard from grandparents who adopted their grandchildren. They wrote in appreciation for the story in our last newsletter about Monica, who adopted her grandson Gavin. The pandemic has dramatically reduced the number of foster families. This is making kinship care by grandparents, relatives or family friends even more important. We are so grateful for every extended family member who steps up to care for a child.
Supporter E.P. wrote that she enjoys our newsletter: “I love your stories, especially when they show just what a difference Wayfinder makes in the lives of the kids and families you serve.” I’m so happy that E.P. and other Wayfinder friends are reading about our clients. Their determination and hope inspire me every day!
I’ve also heard from dedicated Wayfinder staff members who chose to be vaccinated. A Group Home staff member told me she got vaccinated because she wants to protect our residents. A teacher in our Special Education School took the shot because she wants to see her students in person as soon as possible. A social worker shared that she wanted to protect the families she visits in their homes, families whose communities have been the hardest hit by the pandemic.
I so appreciate these moments of optimism and gratitude! I know we will emerge from the pandemic stronger and even more dedicated to serving those who turn to Wayfinder. Thank you for supporting Wayfinder.
ONE YEAR
Thanks to your support, I am proud of all we have done for Wayfinder’s residents, children and families in the past year:
20,000+ Zoom sessions
All of our programs remained uninterrupted even during the early days of quarantine thanks to our staff quickly pivoting to remote services.
70,352 items of PPE
Wayfinder procured masks, gowns, face shields, goggles and more to protect our staff, residents and families.
12,522 porch drops
Wayfinder staff dropped off groceries, cleaning supplies, masks, educational materials, lessons and more to our families in need.
6,700 gift cards. toys, books, clothes and shoes
Wayfinder’s residents, children and families received holiday gift cards, toys, shoes and clothing thanks to generous donors.
Would you like to help?
Visit www.wayfinderfamily.org/cares to make a donation or read more about our Impact Council to get involved.
May 5, 2021