MESSAGE FROM MATT MARKLEY, CEO

As we near the end of 2022, I am happy to say that Hibiscus Children’s Center has succeeded in keeping children safe in spite of the many challenges we all faced the last two years. This would not have been possible without the support of our loyal donors who care deeply about children and families.

But the challenges continue. Hibiscus is experiencing the same struggles so many others are currently. Inflation, high gas prices, vacant staff positions. All these things affect our budget and the things we can do for children and families.

Funding we receive from state and federal sources only covers approximately 70% of what is required to care for children. The remaining 30% comes from fundraising and ensures children have access to things like:

Literacy Program • 10-week Summer Camp Program • Outings & Activities Clothing Closets • Equine Therapy • Music Therapy • Medical Services on-site •  Ancillary Mental Health Services

Additionally, capital expense we incur each year such as van replacement, facility repairs and improvements are also possible through donations.

Our Community Mental Health Program is now experiencing wait lists for the first time. The Supporting Families in Crisis Program is experiencing more demand for services than ever before as housing and rent costs soar.

The need is real, with your help we will be resilient again! Please consider giving today to impact hundreds of children and families on the Treasure Coast. 

Briana arrived at the Jensen Beach Shelter scared and unsure of what would happen to her and her older brother. Briana was immediately enrolled in middle school and as expected, she experienced some behavioral and academic challenges. But staff did not give up on Briana and she committed to working hard to improve her life. She received counseling and homework tutoring weekly.

A year later Briana is still in Hibiscus’ care but she is flourishing academically and has a great attitude! She has scored in the 98th percentile on her exams and her teachers were thrilled with her progress. She was chosen for a special program that will enable her to take the testing designed for college bound high school students, even though she is still in middle school.

Briana faced her difficulties head-on and found a way to bounce back after the challenges and tough times she endured. Briana is resilient! According to a study conducted at Harvard, the single most common factor for children who develop resilience is at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive parent or caregiver. Briana’s parents were not able to provide this, but Hibiscus staff and volunteers stepped in to ensure Briana had these crucial relationships.

Thank you to our supporters who make these critical services possible for children like Briana. Each year we must raise over $3 million to care for children like Briana. We cannot let current economic struggles keep us from providing the care children and families need.