Houston Nonprofit BEAR: A Lifeline to Thousands of Children in CPS Care
The spirit of giving was in full swing over the holiday season across the Greater Houston Area, as nonprofit BEAR (Be a Resource for CPS Kids) achieved a remarkable feat of serving 26,623 children in Child Protective Services (CPS) custody through its BEARing Gifts program.
Created 25 years ago, the BEAR organization is a unique, nonprofit entity in partnership with both the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and Harris County Resources for Children and Adults. Through this partnership, BEAR aims to enhance the lives of children in CPS care, not only by supplying basic needs, but also by offering a range of supportive services to foster comfort, dignity, and success.
With a substantial increase in the number of children under CPS care in the Greater Houston Area — currently at a staggering 16,000, with more than 1,000 removed from their homes under emergency situations, according to BEAR — BEAR's work is more critical than ever. BEAR has demonstrated its ability to respond to the growing demand, evolving from a modest operation with an annual budget of $7,000 to a significant local force with a budget exceeding $2M.
BEAR's warehouse during the holiday season in 2023, full of gifts for children in CPS care. (Source: BEAR)BEAR's dedicated mission extends beyond the holiday season to offer year-round support, illustrated by a multitude of initiatives. These include providing essential items in the BEAR Room all year, the distribution of backpacks and school supplies each fall, and the heart-warming Christmas gift program.
Following a successful holiday campaign, BEAR now faces the challenge of restocking supplies to continue its vital work. In the past year, the organization supported more than 30,000 children through its BEAR Necessities program, providing new clothing, shoes, diapers, car seats, air mattresses, and more.
Car seats in BEAR's warehouse, ready for children in CPS care. (Source: BEAR)
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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