A Message of Hope in Turbulent Times
Lately, we’ve seen actions across the country and here within our state that go against our core value of supporting families and, consequently, preventing children from harm.
Recent changes to Medicaid and SNAP have the potential to drastically undermine the systems of support that so many Alaskan families need. Cuts to federal programs like AmeriCorps are limiting opportunities for youth, and withheld funds for afterschool programs mean uncertainty for parents’ schedules and children’s routines. And these are just a few of many changes impacting kids!
Even in the face of these challenges and uncertainty, ACT believes in the power of hope - not just for Alaska’s children and families, but for all of us. When we come together to protect and support our kids, we’re also building stronger, more connected communities for ourselves and future generations.
At Alaska Children’s Trust, our work has always been about giving every child the chance to thrive. That mission is more important now than ever.
Today, we’re sharing hope and meaningful ways we can keep building a community where children and families feel supported, valued, and deeply cared for:
Offer help to a family you know who may be struggling. Provide a meal, offer to assist with the kids, lend a kind word of support. Even the smallest gesture of kindness makes a difference.
Create connected communities with people around you – on your block or in your apartment complex. Reaching out and knowing each other is protective for the whole community and builds hope and resilience.
Build children and youth up - Be kind whenever you’re in the presence of a child or young person. Have a positive conversation with children and teens. Let them know they’re part of the community and you’re an adult they can turn to.
In addition to caring for each other and being positive role models for kids, this is a pivotal time to support child and family serving organizations. With federal funding for many nonprofits in flux and so many rippling impacts to Alaska’s children and families, your unwavering support is critically important.
One excellent way to ensure the nonprofit missions you care about are safeguarded is to become a sustaining, monthly donor. Your gift, regardless of size, makes a difference, and giving monthly provides the foundation needed for continued work.
Make a gift to ACT or one of the 36 Alaskan nonprofit organizations that identify as focusing on child abuse and neglect. Follow this link for Pick.Click.Give’s list of organizations and filter by "cause type: child abuse and neglect" to explore the many organizations working to help children and families.
Every act of kindness, every dollar given, and every connection made sends the same powerful, hopeful message: it’s all about the kids.
With thanks and hope,
