Message from CEO Matt Markley
Thank you for your unwavering dedication and support of Hibiscus. As we enter April– a month dedicated to raising awareness about child abuse and prevention, I reach out to you with both urgency and heartfelt gratitude. This year marks a significant milestone for us: 40 years of rescuing and protecting countless children from abuse and neglect. Our commitment remains as strong today as it was four decades ago. With your support, we can create a safer, brighter future for every child in need.
Child abuse is a deeply troubling and widespread issue that affects millions of children world-wide, leaving lasting scars that can endure well into adulthood. At Hibiscus, we are committed to tirelessly creating a world where every child is safe, nurtured and empowered to thrive.
Your support is more vital than ever. This year has been especially challenging for our agency financially, as funding from our primary source of revenue, the Department of Children & Families (DCF) has dropped significantly. If this trend continues, it will severely impact our ability to protect and care for children in need.
During C
hild Abuse Prevention Month, I encourage you to make an extra contribution to Hibiscus – together, we can create change that lasts far beyond this month, leaving a powerful legacy for future generations.
To donate, please scroll down or contact Michelle King, Chief Development Officer at mking@hcc4kids.org or call 561.452.5791. Thank you for considering our appeal. Your generosity has the power to create lasting change and transform lives.
Former Hibiscus Resident Shares How Hibiscus Changed His Life
Over 35 years ago, Dave Miller found refuge at Hibiscus Children’s Center. At just four years old, Dave and his two younger siblings were discovered abandoned at a motel in Okeechobee and brought to Hibiscus Shelter. Despite his young age, Dave vividly recalls his time there. “I have fond memories of Hibiscus. I remember feeling safe, having enough food, and being clean, things I had not experienced before. We arrived at the Shelter late at night hungry and the staff offered us as many donuts as we wanted. It was the first time I ever experienced having more than enough food. The staff were wonderful and provided comfort to me.
One of Dave’s most touching memories is when the Hibiscus staff celebrated his birthday. He felt valued and important, especially when he was allowed to choose pumpkin pie instead of cake, which he didn’t like. “I was always worried about being just a number, feeling like I didn’t matter to anyone. As a child, I didn’t realize that the kindness and love shown to me at Hibiscus were intentional. Now I understand that these acts were meant to make me and the other children feel cared for and significant.”
Today, Dave is an advocate for facilities like Hibiscus, grateful for the positive impact they had on him and his siblings. He has a family of his own and is a successful businessperson in Chicago. Dave has turned his early challenges into a solid foundation for life and is thankful that Hibiscus was there to support him when he needed it most.
DONATE TO OUR
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH CAMPAIGN
Thank you for your support and keeping children safe!