I grew up in a safe and loving home.

My parents bought me clothes and food. They sent me to school and encouraged me. No one in my house was physically or verbally abused and no one abused drugs or alcohol.

Because my home was a safe place, I have been able to raise my children in a similar manner. They attend school and have goals of higher education and fulfilling careers.

Unfortunately, this is not true for many of the kids in Idaho.

Last year over 800 kids in the Treasure Valley were removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect or abandonment. Their parents didn’t know how to provide a safe and loving environment because they themselves were probably not raised in a safe and loving home.

If we want education in Idaho to improve, we need to address children’s basic needs. Kids can’t learn if they are hungry or abused.

I wish I could open my home to all of the children who are hurting, but I can’t. So I will do my best to help, by providing a list of resources:

• If you suspect child abuse, neglect or abandonment, report it. Here is a link to the numbers.
• If you are worried about suicide, call the national suicide prevention hotline.
• If you are looking for ways to help kids and families who struggle, consider volunteering your time at the Family Advocates. It offers free courses (and diapers) to parents and children who want to learn how to improve.
• If you don’t have time to volunteer, you can donate clothing or household items to the Idaho Youth Ranch. It provides therapy to children who have dealt with trauma, abuse or neglect.

What other resources are available to kids who are struggling? Have any of these programs or organizations impacted your life? Tell me your story: [email protected]