MiKid is a local non-profit that provides support and assistance for families with children and teens with behavioral health challenges. Every holdiay season, MiKid provides toys, games, sports equipment or anything else that a needy child might want in a “Santa’s Elf Bag.” The Office Manager at MiKid, Jennifer Neely, explained that this year donations for our teen populaton are especially limited. “Many of the teens on our list are currently living in group homes and don’t have family members providing special gifts for the holiday season,” said Ms. Neely.

What do teens want?  Sports related items like soccer balls and baseballs, movies, toiletries, curling irons, sweatshirts (hoodies), colored socks, lip gloss, chapstick, combs, brushes, books, gift certificates, board games, playing cards, colored pencils, sketch pads, inexpensive jewelry, scarves, cookies etc. MiKid will also accept cash donations for the purchase of necessary items.

MiKid is a 501(c)(3) organization and is affiliated with the Federation of Families for Childre3n’s Mental Health and their philosophy is that most families are multi-stressed, not dysfunctional.  When working with famlies, MiKid staff focuses on strengths, not flaws and believes that planning and obtaining of services should be a joint effort of family and professionals. MiKid staff know that parents know their child best.

To donate please call the MiKid office at 882-0142 or stop by with your donation during regular business hours from 8am to 5pm at 4500 E. Speedway, Suite 58.  The website is www.mikid.org