How did P.J.'s Forgotten Children get its name?

P.J.'s was named in honor of Patrick John Smith, who died while suffering a severe mental illness. His family contributed much to the original organization.

Who does P.J.'s Forgotten Children help?

Each year Valley Mental Health provides P.J.'s with genuine cases of families struggling with mental illness and poverty. The children with the most critical needs are selected to participate in our programs. Many are homeless at different times during the year. The children often report that this is the first new outfit or Christmas stocking they have ever received.

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How do I Adopt-a-Child for Christmas?
P.J.'s Forgotten Children follows specific policies and guidelines when providing Christmas and Back-to-School Projects.

How much does Adopt-a-Child cost?
The cost associated with adopting a child varies depending on the items needed for each child. However, we find that the average cost for Christmas is $100.00 per child.

Do the families of the children in our programs have to meet income qualifications before a child can be included in our Back-to-School and Christmas Programs?

We have no specific requirements. The therapist working with each child makes the determination according to the child’s need. P.J.'s Forgotten Children helps only those with the greatest needs.

What are the items included in the Christmas Program?
P.J.’s has forms that must be filled out for each participating child. The forms are filled out by parents and the therapists working with the family. The form includes two wants and two needs for each child. It includes sizes, favorite colors, interests, age and weight of each child. Most wants for the child are things that we consider necessities; however these children do want the same things as children in their age group want. We ask that donors use wisdom in filling these requests. (Some of the things we include for each child are: 6 pairs of stockings & underwear, a shoe certificate, an outfit, and if possible, a coat or sweat shirt.)

Do you provide Christmas or school supplies to adults?
No. P.J.’s Forgotten Children only helps children who have been referred by Valley Mental Health.  We try to provide family gifts that would help the children.

What are your sources of funding?
P.J.'s Forgotten Children finances its work through individual contributions, corporate donations and foundation grants. P.J.'s Forgotten Children relies on in-kind contributions to help provide Christmas and Back to School for the children. P.J.'s Forgotten Children does not solicit contributions over the phone or door-to-door.

Can my financial contribution be tax deductible?
Yes. P.J.'s Forgotten Children is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the extent of tax deductibility. See how our funds are spent...