Thriving to be Happy and Well Family Fun Day

The Thornton brothers, ranging from ages 1- 16, tragically lost their mother. By the grace of God and the love of their close-knit community, they remain in each other’s lives, although they are growing up in different homes.

Only a couple of the children’s fathers are able to help raise their own sons. They are

all growing up to be respectful young men, but they all struggle with mental health

conditions. Fortunately, all five kids are supported by family members.

The Thorntons’s are just one in a million families that experience mental and

physical health conditions and need support. Please help sponsor one

child/family.

Reports show that in Colorado, about 16.5% of children aged 5-17 experienced poor

mental health in 2023. In 2020, over 109,000 children, or more than 10% of those aged

3-17, struggled with anxiety or depression during the early pandemic. A 2023 survey

found a significant improvement in some areas, with a lower percentage of high school

students reporting feelings of hopelessness or sadness compared to previous years.

Colorado’s foster care system in 2023-2024 served over 4,100 children with a critical

shortage of homes, as only 2,000 licensed foster homes were available for over 4,300

children. While 53% of children are placed with relatives or known kin, the system faces

high turnover with 50% of foster parents quit within the first year. Despite these

pressures, student outcomes improved, with 99.3% of youth in care advancing a grade

level. 

With your support, we can help a child and families with their mental and physical

wellness.