Almost overnight, COVID-19 has radically changed life as we know it...across the nation, worldwide, and now here at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch.
But one thing that hasn't changed: the need for a very special place where vulnerable children can find healing, hope, and shelter from the storms of life.
That's why I'm sharing with you the very real financial challenges caused by the virus.
First, please know we're praying that you and your loved ones are safe. Our kids know that you make their treatment and education possible. They're truly grateful.
Most important for you to know is that we've had to temporarily close our Ranch Thrift Stores, and we don't know when they will reopen. These stores provide us with up to $1 million in funding for our children each year. We don't know how we will recoup that.
We, like you and everyone else, are taking it one day at a time. Our first priority, of course, is the safety and well-being of our awesome children. We're also concerned about protecting our hardworking staff.
Thankfully, we're continuing to provide services. Our campuses are open, school begins again March 30 with our teachers and children often miles apart, and our children are receiving the care they need. Still, the changes in their routine only add to the anxiety they live with every day.
Just imagine you're a child who has experienced great trauma, failure in the classroom, even mental illness. With little control over what happened in the past, you now have to face something called a "global pandemic."
They're scared - for themselves, but also for those they love. Many have asked our spiritual life team to pray for their families. The unknown just further fuels their fears. It's heart-wrenching to see them go through this.
Our job is to provide the best care possible. And we will do that, no matter what. But we need you to stand with us now more than ever.
I realize you have your own financial hurdles. If money is tight, I ask only that you pray for us. But if God is prompting you - and you have the resources to help close the gap caused by the Thrift Store closings, your help would be such a blessing. I hope you'll send a special gift, above and beyond your already generous support.
Your partnership will help ensure health, safety, and ongoing treatment for the kids you care so much about during this very difficult time.
Whatever you decide to do, the most important thing you can do it pray for our children, for our team of caring professionals, and for an end to this pandemic. We're praying for you.
Thank you for whatever you can do to help now.
In His Love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch