Addiction is a very real issue that affects several families at Lincoln. For the first time ever, a sitting U.S. surgeon general has declared substance abuse a public-health crisis. “It’s time to change how we view addiction,” Vivek Murthy said in a statement last week, which was accompanied by a lengthy report on the issue. “Not as a moral failing, but as a chronic illness that must be treated with skill, urgency and compassion. The way we address this crisis is a test for America.”
Murthy’s statement is a major victory for those advocates who have long hoped addiction would be viewed through a physical- and mental-health lens.
Dear Lincoln Youth and Families,
When someone says that you do not matter, we will remind you that you do.
When someone says that you do not belong, we will show you how you do.
When someone says that you are less worthy because of the color of your skin, we will tell you that you are beautiful and perfect as you are.
When someone tries to tells you who you can and can’t love, we will stand with you in that love.
When someone says that you have no reproductive rights, we will fight to ensure that you do.
When someone blames you for the problems that exist in our world when you are just trying to make it through one more day, we will remind you just how important you are.
We know that many of you are feeling uncertain, fearful, and hopeless about how our governmental policies may impact you and your families in the coming months. Lincoln has stood by the children, youth and families we serve for 133 years, through catastrophes and political shifts, always being guided by our mission and values. We will continue to stand on our values of diversity, integrity, respect, courage, compassion, and excellence in our service to you. For it is these shared values that provides us with a beacon to bring us together as we try to make the world a better place for our children.
Standing with you in solidarity,
Christine Stoner-Mertz
Lincoln President & CEO
The destiny of a child living in the Bay Area should not be determined by her zip code.
The truth is, just a few city blocks can separate kids who experience the benefits of affluence and those who confront crowded classrooms, neighborhood violence, and family instability.
At Lincoln, we’re passionate about walking alongside children and families as they unlock the doors of possibility and rewrite the story of growing up in poverty and trauma. Thanks to your support last year, we impacted the lives of more than 4,000 kids and families, further strengthening our pipeline to successful adulthood and self-sufficiency.
Your continued support today will propel:
School Attendance and Learning
Ninety-six percent of youth in Lincoln’s school-based programs improved attendance –a core element of learning and success. Because of you, Lincoln will continue to raise the bar for kids, getting them to school, reading by third grade, and following a strong path to graduation.
Family Stability and Strength
Ninety-nine percent of families in Lincoln’s kinship program remain stable and together. Thanks to you, Lincoln will continue to provide families with the support they need for their children to thrive, succeed, and grow.
Life Success and Self-Sufficiency
Ninety percent of Lincoln youth transitioning from probation back to their families sustained no new offenses or violations. Because of your support, Lincoln continues to make new beginnings possible, giving youth the chance to lead more productive lives.
We couldn’t do this vital work without you. Many believe as you do that Lincoln is the best investment you can ever make in our community. We invite you again to join our movement empowering the next generation to beat the odds, build strong futures, and expand what’s possible.
FOR THE FIRST TIME LAST YEAR…
…Lincoln parents were able to give gifts to their own children. Over the years, generous donors have supported Lincoln families during the holidays by donating toys, clothing, and school supplies. Last year, this generosity continued when we asked supporters to shift their giving to monetary contributions to give parents the gift of giving to their own children. We’re excited about expanding giving in this way again this year and giving parents and caregivers the joyful experience of shopping and choosing gifts for their own children.
Supporter generosity has made the holidays a little brighter for thousands of families in the Bay Area. Can you help us make this possible again? Will you help us raise $25,000 to add even more joy to Lincoln families this year?
YOU MAKE IT ALL POSSIBLE
Your gift today will help us towards our goal in making the holidays a time of celebration for Lincoln children, youth, and families. Help build strong futures this holiday season!
To donate online, click here!
