Yes! An agressive goal is necessary in order to address an aggressively growing need.
IS THE FACILITY LARGE ENOUGH? TOO LARGE?
In order to manage growth and meet our goal of providing the best possible care, a phased construction plan has been adopted. Phase I will address the immediate need for emergency space and services by increasing capacity from 32 to 48 beds. Additional emergency beds (up to 72) will be added in subsequent phases.
WHY ARE CHILDREN BEING TURNED AWAY?
On any given day, limitations in space, funding, programming, staffing, or a combination of these factors prevent the Shelter from accepting some children for placement.
HOW MANY CHILDREN DO YOU ESTIMATE WILL HAVE TO BE TURNED AWAY IF THE SHELTER REMAINS IN ITS CURRENT FACILITY?
Over the past 3 years, the Children's Shelter has served an average of over 400 children per year, while turning away an average of over 625 per year. It is difficult to make accurate projections about the number of children we will be unable to serve; however, even with zero growth in turn-aways, this is an unacceptable figure.
HOW MANY CHILDREN COME FROM BENTON COUNTY? WASHINGTON COUNTY?
2009 Statistics:
25% from Benton County 13% from Washington County
36% from Sebastian County
26% from other counties across the state
HOW ARE THE ANNUAL OPERATIONS OF THE CHILDREN'S SHELTER FUNDED?
25% from state contracts 04% from United Way of Northwest Arkansas
04% from Bentonville Schools
67% from fundraising events and private donations
I ALREADY SUPPORT THE CHILDREN'S SHELTER BY ATTENDING EVENTS AND MAKING ANNUAL GIFTS. WHY IS AN ADDITIONAL GIFT NEEDED?
Annual gifts and fundraising events support the daily operations of the Shelter. This support remains critical while a separate capital campaign is necessary to help secure a new facility and provide a place for future growth.
WHO WILL MANAGE THE ENDOWMENT?
The Care Foundation will manage the long-term endowment funds. Short-term funds will be held at Arvest and Liberty Banks. Regular reporting on the status of all funds will be made to the Finance Committee of the Board of Directors of NWACS.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE CHILDREN'S SHELTER AND CHILDREN'S HOUSE?
Although the Children's House in Fayetteville and the Northwest Arkansas Children's Shelter both serve children who have been victims of abuse and neglect, there are differences in the types of services provided. Children's House is a therapeutic day treatment program for preschool children ages 18 months to 5 years. The Children's Shelter is a 24-hour residential facility and accepts children in a much wider age range.
WHY A RESALE SHOP?
A resale shop will generate earned income to help defray the Shelter's daily operating expenses, and at the same time provide a means to share resources with others in need in the community.
