Northwest Arkansas Childrens Shelter

Danita

Danita* struggled academically when she first arrived at the Shelter. Originally in care because of neglect and parental drug use, Danita had bounced from school to school, never finding consistency. Through observation and gentle questioning, her case manager discovered that her poor eyesight was a major hindrance to her academic success. Once we arranged a visit to the optometrist and she received her new glasses, her school work and class participation immediately improved. Danita is our most voracious reader – she’s often seen reading a book during lunch, dinner, quiet time, etc. Danita has now been with us for more than six months. In a recent student-led conference, her teachers and the youth care staff praised her for her behavior, leadership and initiative. Unused to hearing positive affirmation and praise, Danita broke down in tears and said, “I wish my mom could hear all of the good things you guys say about me.”

*name and image changed to protect the privacy of the youth in our care

Samuel

Samuel came from an environment of neglect. He didn’t know where his next meal would come from, and he spent much of his young life on the streets.

Read more about SamuelImpact stories

Meet Samuel

Samuel* came from an environment of neglect. He didn’t know where his next meal would come from, and he spent much of his young life on the streets.

By the time he arrived at the Children’s Shelter at 16-years old, he’d experienced 26 failed placements, was reading at a second grade level and failure was just a normal part of life.

Upon meeting Samuel, the dedicated team at the Shelter began building trust with him and created an individualized success plan.

He has not only received the care, love and vital services he so desperately needed, but he has thrived. Samuel has made great strides in school. He is working on life skills such as changing the oil in the Shelter vans, assisting with set-up for Shelter events and helping reconcile petty cash in the business office. He’s even opened up a bank account and visited different work environments to discuss career options for his future.

Before the Shelter, Samuel didn’t know home. At the Shelter, he’s found not only a home, but a family.

*name and image changed to protect privacy

I like the Shelter because we get new stuff, like clothes, and we get to go outside and play kickball.

Adam, age 6

The best thing that I love about the Shelter is the acceptance. No matter where any of us came from, we are accepted here.

Melanie, age 15

The Shelter felt like a family to me – always helping me when I needed it and making me feel at ease. I might be leaving, but a part of me is staying.

Chelle, age 16