We know that the children and families we serve will be heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Loneliness and social isolation can be difficult for all of us, but vulnerable families and children will suffer the most. In fact, many children and young people are now facing increased adversities and toxic stress in their homes.
“Toxic stress” is the dangerous and life-long impacts of stressful environments on children. We know that when children experience toxic stress over an extended period of time without intervention, it can negatively affect a child’s developing brain, their immune system, mental health and physical wellbeing.
Research and neuroscience demonstrates stable, caring relationships are essential for shielding youth from the negative effects of toxic stress. Harvard University’s Centre on the Developing Child has recently validated our work as an essential service for children’s health by publicly declaring that “…every child who ends up doing well has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult.”
Time and time again, Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors are there when kids need them most.
We are committed to maintaining and supporting the vital mentoring relationships we create in order to fight the social isolation of our most vulnerable youth. But, we can only do it with your support.
Together, we can enable life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of young people. Your commitment to these young people and the essential service we provide is needed now more than ever before.
You have the power to fight toxic stress for our most vulnerable youth with your donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters.