2023 Giving Tree Update!

As previously noted, West Ocean’s Giving Tree this year is going to support the Adopt a Family program at The Guidance Center “TGC”.  The project was kicked off on Monday November 17th with residents & staff from TGC in attendance.

With their headquarters located in Downtown Long Beach, The Guidance Center, est in 1946, provides comprehensive mental health treatment to our community’s most disadvantaged children and families struggling with mental illness and abuse, leading them toward a positive and productive future.

We are into our third week and many thanks to all those that have already pledged a donation. It’s now time for the rest of us to pledge either a gift card or adopt a family. Here is an example of a small family:

Single mother with 2 kids, of which the 6-year-old girl was referred to The Guidance Center by the pediatrician due to concern about her speech delay, chewing on non-edible objects, bed wetting, and aggressive behavior towards others. Mother noticed that this behavior started when the father, the breadwinner of the family, abandoned them in May and they were subsequently evicted. The older brother 15, has Autism and receives special education classes as well as physical therapy. The family does not have access to all their belongings, and mother fears they will not get them back. Little girl misses her toys, the house she grew up in, and her dad. Adopt-a-Family will make a huge difference with this family! Not only will the donations bring a huge smile to their face, but it will also let them know that they are not alone during these tough times. 

If you have any questions, please contact Hilda Tourians at htourians@gmail.com