For the past few years, we have been working with Children’s Harbor in Pembroke Pines during the holidays. The organization provides family-oriented group homes to children and teenagers in the foster care system, helping to keep siblings together despite the family crisis.

Children’s Harbor is so vital to these children, who are often affected by the tragedy, trauma, abuse, or unfortunate circumstances that could easily tear them apart. Children’s Harbor recognizes that siblings and family members in these situations need each other to lean on.

Keeping Families Together

There is nothing more important at the holidays than family. Many of us take our families for granted, but not every child has that kind of stability.

Pregnant or parenting teens are also at risk, either of losing their children to the system or of not having the tools and support they need to be a good parent to their child. Children’s Harbor supports the needs of young mothers, too, giving them a safe and supporting network to turn to so they can finish school and go on to lead a happy, fulfilled, and productive life with their child.

In many cases, when families are caught up in the system, kids end up being removed from the home. Often, they are sent to different places, kept apart from the people who know and love them best. By keeping families together, it betters their chances of moving past their circumstances, reducing risk, and giving them the hope and support they need to carry on.

Through the organization’s efforts, 24 siblings and 12 pregnant or parenting teens will thrive on their eight-acre campus and residence. Additionally, 200 families will receive in-home parenting counseling, ensuring that despite their challenges, they have a fighting chance of attaining financial stability and going on to live a happy and productive life.

Our Contribution and Commitment to Children’s Harbor

We take our commitment to Children’s Harbor very seriously. Each year, they send us the names, genders, and ages of everyone in their residential homes. We then create a holiday tree with a special ornament for each child and teen and invite our members to choose one of them so that they can donate a gift.

We deliver their gifts by mid-December so these families can put them under the tree and enjoy the magic of Christmas as every young person should.

Charitable giving is a great way to close out the year for many reasons. Many businesses like that it gives them a break on their taxes, but the real value lies in providing hope to those less fortunate than us.

Think about how you can make a difference this holiday season. No matter what is near and dear to your heart, chances are you know of a worthy cause or a way to contribute something that will bring joy. Just look in your heart – it’s already there.

Of course, if you’re stuck for ideas, Children’s Harbor is always in need of a helping hand. Donate, become a mentor, or volunteer your time – whatever you can do, we assure you, it will be welcomed with open arms.

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