In Placer County, a story of struggle and hope is unfolding through families like Julia Toro’s, showing us the urgent need for community support in these challenging times. For 35 years, KidsFirst has been providing vital services to more than 100,000 children and families facing mental health crises, domestic violence and trauma. Julia’s journey highlights the crucial role the organization continues to play in the lives of families in crisis.

“Healing and understanding mental health is an ongoing process,” Julia shares, her voice filled with emotion. “If I hadn’t connected with KidsFirst and met Rosie, who led me to Alicia, I wouldn’t have sought help.”

Julia’s story began in July 2023, when she and her family found themselves homeless — a reality all too familiar for many in our community.

For families with teens, the challenges are even more daunting. KidsFirst CEO Debbie Gabelich explains, “The lack of available foster homes and care facilities, especially for older or higher-needs youth, means child welfare systems must call on juvenile detention centers when there are no other options available, which cannot provide the therapeutic care these young people need.”

This shortage of resources forces the juvenile justice system to become the default solution — a heartbreaking reality for those committed to supporting vulnerable youth.

Teens today are facing immense pressure — social media challenges, dating violence and the threat of sex trafficking — while many families are also grappling with financial instability, often contributing to abuse. At KidsFirst, the rising number of domestic violence cases, especially among teens, has led to an overwhelming demand for counseling and support groups.

The passage of Proposition 1 has further complicated these challenges. While it increased funding for housing, it cut back on prevention services, forcing KidsFirst to navigate a new landscape as a nonprofit. Despite these hurdles, the organization remains unwavering in its commitment to supporting at-risk youth, even as the need continues to grow.

Julia’s story is one of many that shines a light on the power of community support. KidsFirst was there for her family when they needed it most, providing consistent resources and care through their darkest days. This is the profound impact community-based organizations can have on lives in crisis.

As Placer County faces these rising challenges, KidsFirst remains steadfast in its mission to support vulnerable children and teens. Securing the necessary resources to meet the growing demand has never been more critical — the well-being of our youth is on the line. The struggles in Placer County reflect a broader, national crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for more support and resources for youth mental health. As communities nationwide face similar challenges, the stories of families like Julia’s remind us of the transformative power of compassion and the importance of standing together to support our most vulnerable.