“Back-to-school can be a really exciting time for most kids, but for kids in foster care, it can be full of uncertainty,” shares Christy Howard, Vice President of Community Based Services for KVC Missouri. “We want to change that, we want to give kids the fresh start that they deserve.”

Christy Howard, Vice President of Community Based Services

That’s why KVC and KMBC 9 News are working together this month to make sure kids in foster care can start their school year in style. “There are so many things that most people take for granted, like getting a new outfit or having shoes that fit, and for some kids in foster care they might not have that,” Christy explains. Together, we aim to raise enough to buy back-to-school outfits for 1,000 kids and teens. This gives youth in foster care the opportunity to pick out their own clothes, so they can express themselves and feel comfortable and confident.

Having back-to-school essentials makes such a difference for kids who are facing uncertainty. “They may be going to a new school, they may live in a new home, they might be meeting a new peer group. So we want to give them the confidence they need to start off on the right foot,” says Christy. It can be a huge relief both for the kids and those caring for them to know they are supported by their community and prepared to learn.

Get to know the families you’ll be supporting: watch this KMBC 9 foster care feature

A Growing Partnership with Heart

KVC’s partnership with KMBC 9 began in 2023, when the station launched its KMBC 9 Cares for Kids initiative to connect viewers with local nonprofits supporting children’s well-being and success. The initiative was introduced in celebration of KMBC 9’s 70th anniversary, with an ambitious goal to raise $70,000 to help create a brighter future for youth across Kansas and Missouri.

KVC Health Systems was honored to be one of the five founding nonprofit partners in this effort. Since then, KMBC 9 and KVC have continued working hand in hand to bring joy, confidence and support to children and teens in foster care.

Your Morning Coffee Can Make a Difference

Want to support kids in foster care and enjoy a free cup of coffee? KMBC 9 is picking up the tab at one of your favorite Kansas City coffee shops every Monday in July! We’re halfway through the month and so far we’ve raised $12,912! We have two more events coming up, and you can help us reach our goal of $50,000 to support kids served by KVC. Stop by for a free cup of coffee and show your support!

• Monday, 7/21, 8-9 AM at The Filling Station Gillham- 2980 McGee Trafficway, Kansas City, MO
• Monday, 7/28, 8-9 AM at Black Dog Coffee, 12815 W. 87^th St. Lenexa, KS

If you can’t make it in person, you can still help a child served by KVC feel loved and valued; make your donation here.

No amount is too small…even $9 makes a difference! Give today to help a child feel proud and prepared on the first day of school.

Your Gift of $9 provides personal care items for a youth experiencing foster care.

Your Gift of $25 buys new underwear and socks for a youth.

Your Gift of $50 provides funds for a child to shop for their own back-to-school outfit.

Your Gift of $75 buys a child in foster care a haircut and personal care items.

Your Gift of $100 gives a child or teen a new pair of shoes and additional clothing.

Your Gift of $250 provides essential needs for a KVC Academy classroom.

Every dollar makes a real impact in the life of a child. With your help, we can ensure that every youth served by KVC starts the school year feeling seen, supported and ready to thrive. Thank you for being part of this community of care.