Early Intervention: Lifelong Impact

In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics released a policy statement concluding that: The lifelong costs of childhood toxic stress are enormous, manifested in adverse impacts on learning, behavior, and health, and effective early childhood interventions provide critical opportunities to prevent these undesirable outcomes and generate large economic returns for all of society.

Fall Appeal 2012 Early InterventionAs a community, we must reach out and identify children living in toxic stress much earlier and - one family at a time - reduce the risk of poor long-term health and economic outcomes.

The impact of toxic stress is visible in our work throughout Hennepin County every day. Last year, our in-home services to highly-distressed families grew substantially. Nearly 200 families with children birth to five years of age received regular home visits. Many parents reported their own histories of child abuse, struggles with mental health issues, and an inability to meet their families' basic needs. 

St. David's Center responds to these critical needs. Our talented and experienced home visitors and in-home therapists work closely with parents to mitigate toxic stress, tune into their very young children, and more effectively meet their needs. The results are outstanding: 83% of the children served last year gained self-control, improved their ability to interact positively with peers and adults, and became better problem-solvers. 

Your gifts directly support children and families most in need of care. St. David's Center's reach extends far beyond our Minnetonka campus. Nearly two-thirds of the agency's direct program costs are expended on home and community-based services.  Today your giving has increased impact. St. David's Center is thrilled to offer you the opportunity to multiply the impact of your gift through the Evenstad Family Foundation Challenge.  For every dollar donated to St. David's Center between now and December 31, the Evenstad Family Foundation will generously grant an additional dollar up to a maximum of $50,000.

Ways to Give:

  • Donate Online
  • Mail a check to St. David's Center Attn: Development, 3395 Plymouth Road, Minnetonka MN 55305
  • Set up a recurring monthly gift and save St. David's Center valuable resources!

Questions about giving? Please contact the Director of Community Relations and Development at
952-548-8620 or giving@stdavidscenter.org.

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