The Children's Place

Once again the holiday season is upon us. This year many Missourians will gather with family and friends and undoubtedly reflect upon moments of 2005. The passing year has brought people all over the state great joy and happiness. I will always remember this year fondly because it saw the birth of my son, William Branch. Thus, as we celebrate Christmas with our loved ones, let us take time to count our blessings and show gratitude towards our fellow man.

One matter I am exceedingly grateful for is the generosity of Missourians. I have been fortunate in my travels and through my Show-Me Solutions initiative to witness first-hand the giving nature of so many of our citizens who embody the Christmas spirit throughout the entire year. In fact two days before Thanksgiving I had the opportunity to visit an organization that is the epitome of hope that accompanies the holidays. The Children's Place in Kansas City is a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to preschool children who have been abused or neglected. The children often come to The Children's Place with severe behavioral or developmental problems as a result of their prior circumstances. However, hope is in store for these children the minute they come through the door. Through a carefully designed day treatment program, the Children's Place ensures that each child gets the attention they need to progress to loving and bright individuals who are ready to enter preschool or kindergarten.

During my visit to The Children's Place, I read about the First Thanksgiving to a group of preschoolers. The children were attentive and well behaved; so much so that no one would ever guess the horrible situations that these children had once endured. I am greatly appreciative of the critical work the people of the Children's Place provide to some of the most precious and vulnerable members of our state.

To learn more about the Children's Place or how you can make a donation to help please go to www.tcpkc.org.

See photos from this event stored in the Photo Gallery.