Chicago is known for its gun violence, poverty and failing educational system. It’s also home for our amazing kids, who are breaking the cycle and becoming the ones to bring about the change our city so desperately needs.
Dangerous, under-resourced neighborhoods where By The Hand serves represent only six percent of Chicago’s population but account for 23 percent of the city’s homicides.
6% of Chicago’s population
23% of the city’s homicides
98% of children qualify for free and reduced-priced lunches
86% of third-graders at By The Hand partner schools are not meeting reading standards
When you hear about Chicago, you rarely hear about the good. But our kids are becoming fearless crusaders, defenders of others and doers of good. They are sharing abundant life with their family, neighbors and classmates. They are The Solution our city needs.
Since By The Hand began in 2001, we have taken a holistic approach to providing the individual support every child needs—emphasizing the achievement of measurable goals for academic, physical and spiritual development.
When kids can read at or above grade level, they can graduate with honors.
Average GPA
(Out of 4.0)
Passed all
classes
Made all ABCs
When basic needs are met, kids’ academic performance and behavior improve.
1,454
Students offered a hot, nutritious meal everyday
866
Students received dental checkups and cleaning
804
Students received eye exams
A relationship with Jesus is the foundation for an abundant life.
Professed
Faith in Christ
Attended
Church
Received First Day
Gospel Welcome Packets
When M‘Kyla Harris started with By The Hand in the first grade, she has never heard of God’s love for her. M‘Kyla’s love for God began to grow when she was first exposed to chapel services, held every Thursday (which she now claims as her favorite day of the week).
read storyWhen Ta’Liya first started with By The Hand, she was withdrawn and shy. She rarely smiled. Sadly, Ta’Liya’s demeanor affected her ability to participate in the classroom and engage with her peers.
read storyChildren express a wide array of emotions as they discover and respond to the world around them. Some of our children have difficulty processing those emotions. That’s what we saw with Pierre.
read story
You can play a life-changing role in solving the violence and disparity in Chicago. There are many ways to join The Solution, and each way helps children from under-resourced neighborhoods have abundant life.
Connect with us to find out more.