Children leaving their homes during these desperate situations are placed into the custody of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). As this number increases, the need for services also continues to expand, which is where additional fundraising and donations can make an immense impact.
Private/Public Partnership
BEAR is the only 501(c)(3) organization working with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and Harris County Resources for Children and Adults that offers unique programs – that provide not only the basic needs of children recently uprooted, but also supportive services that provide comfort, dignity, and celebration of successes that propel the child toward a successful future – for abused and neglected children.
This partnership with the county and state is vital to BEAR’s success as an organization, allowing $0.85 of every dollar earned through fundraising efforts to go back to effectively operating four core programs. Additionally, the growing need for BEAR’s services is clearly evident by the fact that in the 25 years since inception, BEAR has grown from an annual operating budget of $7,000 to one of over $2M.
For the last 25 years, BEAR has been an important advocate for the most vulnerable population in the greater Houston area…its children. This advocacy is represented through the basic necessities provided for children in BEAR rooms year-round, the backpacks and school supplies distributed each fall, the Christmas gifts that provide joy each winter, and in the canvas photos of adoptable children that are displayed year-round throughout venues in the greater Houston area. BEAR is able to operate these vital programs because of the generosity and support from our community.
Vision:
To become a consistent, integral part of providing unwavering support and resources for abused, neglected, and at-risk children to become contributing and functioning members of their community.
Mission:
BEAR…BE A Resource is a non-profit organization improving lives by providing hope and help for at-risk and CPS-involved children and their caretakers in the greater Houston area.
Core values: BEAR C.A.R.E.S
Compassion: We are compassionate about serving the abused, neglected and at-risk children.
Accessibility: We are strategically located in the community to maximize the accessibility of our services.
Respect: We respect the value and dignity of every child and the caseworkers who serve them.
Excellence: We have dedicated and well-trained staff and volunteers that believe in mission excellence.
Support: We provide immediate support and transition to caseworkers and the children in their care.
To report a suspected case of child abuse, call the Texas Abuse Hotline at (800) 252-5400. The hotline is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Reports can also be made by clicking here.
