Statistics prove that children living in poor neighborhoods are more likely to suffer from traumatic incidents, like witnessing or being the victims of violence, neglect, or abuse. These kids also struggle with daily stress caused by food or housing insecurities and overworked, underemployed, stressed-out parents. Children who have gone through abuse or other trauma have a higher risk of developing a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Unfortunately, schools have not been equipped to support these needs; and once a youth enters the juvenile justice system, it is hard for them to find their way out. Research proves that exclusionary disciplinary practices (e.g., suspensions, alternative school programming, and/or expulsions) often change the trajectory of their education and land them directly in the school-to-prison pipeline.  Our approach is to work side by side with schools and families to disrupt this system.