I am writing to you from Tupelo Children’s Mansion with a sense of urgency. Your ongoing support has been a pillar of strength for many vulnerable children over the years. Yet today, we face some immediate and daunting challenges. First, there is the devastating reality of a substantial decrease in charitable giving nationwide, which began in 2022 and is expected to continue through 2024. In conjunction with decreased giving, food prices and other necessary expenditures for running our program soared in 2023. All of this is also combined with an uncertain economic forecast for 2024. These aren’t just financial issues that we read about in the news; it’s a crisis hitting very close to home. We must continue providing a safe and loving environment for our children!
Let me share a recent, heart-wrenching moment that underscores the importance of our mission. A young boy in our care, whom I’ll call Mark, recently experienced a very difficult moment. Returning from school, he was visibly distraught, repeatedly saying, “They don’t want me!” With utmost care and concern, his housemother asked who he was referring to. Through tears, Mark expressed his fear that his parents didn’t want him because they thought he was bad. In that tender moment, his housemother offered him comfort and reassurance. When Mark, seeking affirmation, asked, “Do you want me?” her answer was an emphatic and loving “YES!”
This incident illustrates the essential role Tupelo Children’s Mansion plays. We are here to ensure children like Mark feel wanted, safe and loved. Our commitment to these children and their well-being is unwavering, and our services are more crucial than ever.
This is why we need your assistance! We understand that most people reading this appeal are also experiencing financial uncertainty in some way due to the current economy. Still, if everyone does something, Tupelo Children’s Mansion can continue offering the essential care our children so desperately need. No contribution is too small; every dollar makes a real difference. Your donation will have an immediate impact in the following ways:
- Ensuring Adequate Nutrition: We will provide over 80,000 nutritious meals in 2024. Your generous contribution ensures the continued excellence of our food program, allowing us to maintain high standards despite the challenges posed by rising food costs.
- Maintaining a Safe Environment: The costs to heat, cool, operate appliances, and provide security in our children’s homes are growing. Your support will provide a comfortable and secure living space for 10-15 children per home.
- Supporting Quality Education: Education is a cornerstone of our mission. Your contribution will go towards essential educational materials and equipment, ensuring our children receive the quality education they deserve.
- Promoting Overall Well-being: Beyond basic needs, we provide holistic care encompassing physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health. From medical care to spiritual guidance, your support touches every aspect of a child’s life.
The need for your support is immediate and critical. Your generosity at this time will transform lives. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for each child under our care, because every child deserves hope!
With sincere appreciation,
Dr. Chad A. Parker, DSW, LMSW, LPC
President, Tupelo Children’s Mansion
P.S. The Word of God assures us over and over again of the provisions of God. Philippians 4:19 declares, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” What a beautiful promise! We have unwavering faith that God knows every need and will provide. The beautiful thing about the ministry of TCM is that God uses our wonderful donors to meet those needs time and time again. Our prayer is that God pours out a blessing on you, “good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38).
