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The Children We Serve
In 2010, Free Arts programs reached 29,782 children in crisis. While we are proud of this reach, we find this to be a heartbreaking number. There are so many more children who need Free Arts’ volunteer-led creative arts programs. At any given time, there are over 32,000 children receiving Child Welfare Services in Los Angeles County alone. (Click here for the most current Fact Sheet from the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.) Free Arts serves not only children in foster care, but also those who are homeless and at-risk because of factors such as poverty, substance abuse and community violence. There are hundreds of thousands of kids facing these adverse circumstances every day, and they need caring adults and the healing power of art in their lives. Free Arts connects with children through our network of partner agencies, which include residential care facilities, domestic violence shelters, low-income housing communities, family resource centers and courthouses throughout greater Los Angeles, including Orange County. “[Art] is my therapy, and it makes me feel humble and positive when I finish a painting. I used to say ‘I’m never gonna stop getting up.’ Now I say, ‘I’m never gonna stop painting.’” - Jessie, Free Arts Day Program participant, former foster youth  |
  
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