Mary (Merry) Braddock: Reindeer Edition

The Problem:

Statistics about the problems facing children in Memphis can seem insurmountable: high ACE (adverse childhood experiences) scores, abject generational poverty, crime, unemployment, 40% of children under age 5 living in poverty and low childhood literacy rates.

The Approach:

Despite the multitude of challenges, Porter-Leath uses its over 170 years of experience to empower children and families to achieve a healthy, optimal and independent lifestyle. Porter-Leath staff members know that there is no quick and easy fix to the problems facing our city, but by employing best-practices, measuring our outcomes and refining our programs, we can make a difference in the lives of over 40,000 local children and families.

The Ways You Can Help:

Take some time to explore this page, watch a video or review program descriptions to learn more about ALL that Porter-Leath does for our community. Consider donating to my page, knowing that your gift can provide the financial resources necessary to support quality early childhood and social services all year long.

$25.00

achieved

$2,750.00

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of your goal reached

Why I need your help

Each year during our Toy Truck event, we not only collect new, unwrapped toys so that all 6,200 of our Preschool students can receive a meaningful gift for Christmas and the holidays, but also raise money to support our programs. Every dollar donated during this time, and through this page, is matched by one of our Secret Santas. There's never a better time to give than now!

Did you know that Porter-Leath empowers over 50,000 local children and families each year to acheive a healthy, optimal and independent lifestyle? Our six program focus areas include:

Books from Birth mails over 45,000 local children an age-appropriate book each month and creates literacy connections for families, which inspire nurturing bonds between caregivers and children. These bonds yield lasting, positive results that extend beyond early childhood.

Connections provides individualized residential, placement and counseling services that meet the needs of troubled children. Connections’ staff continually evaluates each child’s development progress and provides families with specialized training to share a safe, loving, and permanent home. Forty-two children exited to a permanent home last year.

Cornerstone gives newborns and preschool children the best start in life by helping pregnant mothers and parenting families in their homes, reducing infant mortality and improving literacy and language skills. Last year, 96% of program births were healthy birth weight. 

Generations builds relationships between children, adults and seniors who make a positive difference in each other’s lives. Last year, over 161,000 hours of service were provided by these mentors.

Preschool builds kindergarten readiness for children ages 0-5. Through the provision of high quality education, family support, and health and nutritional services, Preschool prepares over 6,200 children each year for a lifetime of learning success.

The Teacher Excellence Program uses intentionally designed and data-informed professional development to prepare teachers to engage in high-quality, effective practices, thereby strengthening the knowledge and skill sets of early childhood educators, resulting in improved education outcomes for children. Over 4,800 hours of professional development was provided in 2018-19.

As a holiday reindeer, I'm doing my part to raise money for Porter-Leath. The funds I raise help "pull that sleigh," providing the funds necessary to support children and families in our community all year long.

My Supporters

  • Facebook Donor October 2021 $25.00
  • Facebook Donor October 2021 $25.00