Children: Protection and Care for our Most Vulnerable
Perhaps the most victimized of all who are homeless are the children. At a time in their lives when security, safety, instruction, and even health concerns are most vital a growing number of girls and boys in Tarrant County are suffering the effects of being without the stability of a home.
According to data collected by TCHC (Tarrant County Homeless Coalition), children made up 25% of the homeless living in emergency shelters and transitional housing in 2009. In 2010, that number has risen to 30%.
The number of homeless families with children has spiked over the past decade. Today, families with children are among the fastest growing segments of the homeless population.
To address the critical need of girls and boys to have stability, a sense of safety, and proper food and health care, UGM-TC provides the following services:
- Union Gospel Mission’s Children’s Enrichment Program continues to draw national attention, due to its ongoing success with educationally disadvantaged children. Our year-round program provides learning reinforcement, homework, and project help to children at UGM-TC.
- Most of the children arriving at UGM-TC are 2-3 years behind grade level in reading and math; yet after only 6-8 weeks participation in the Enrichment Program, most children advance a grade level or higher.
- Summer camps, field trips, and other activities enable students to prepare for academic success, and our children consistently rise to the top of their respective classes.
- The Mission provides transportation to Fort Worth ISD schools, and outfits all resident children with school uniforms, backpacks, and supplies—equipping them to overcome their academic challenges and achieve their dreams for the future!
- UGM-TC also sends children to College for Kids, a three-week summer enrichment program for children in the first through eighth grades. Children can enroll in academic, arts and crafts, science and technology, and health and fitness classes. Courses taught by experienced and motivated faculty encourage and challenge students in an atmosphere that supports inquiry and exploration.
- UGM-TC works alongside the YWCA to serve children in need. The YWCA provides childcare for children 0–4 years of age. Preschool is also available through Fort Worth ISD at the YWCA location. The children are transported to and from day care in the Mission’s private 25-passenger bus provided by Williams Trew Realty.
- UGM-TC partners with Recovery Resource Council to help children develop life skills and participate in Sunshine Club – a program to teach children about making good decisions from a biblical perspective. Recovery Resource also runs a week-long summer and spring break camp for many of our children in grades 1-4.
- UGM-TC also works with Lena Pope Inc. to provide play therapy for some of our children.
