Children Like Loni was born from love, loss, and a mother’s desire to turn unimaginable grief into purpose.

In 2015, I lost my daughter, Loni, suddenly at just 11 years old. Loni was born with a genetic disorder and lived with significant disabilities, but her disability never defined who she was. She was brave, strong, resilient, compassionate, and full of life. She loved dancing, taking selfies, arts and crafts, and—of course—eating! Most importantly, Loni had a way of touching the lives of everyone she met.

After losing her, I had to find a way to keep going. Children Like Loni became that way.

What began as a way for me to cope with my grief became a mission to make sure children with disabilities and families facing adversity knew that they mattered, too. I wanted Loni’s life to continue speaking through the lives of others.

Over the years, that mission has grown. Today, Children Like Loni serves children, individuals, and families through food assistance, youth programs, community resources, supportive services, and partnerships that help meet people where they are.

Loni may have been here for only 11 years, but her impact continues.

Her life became my purpose. Her legacy became our mission.

And that mission became Children Like Loni.