How we find children:
Eligible children in Grades K-4 are referred to the program by local social service agencies. After a detailed application is completed and an interview is conducted, Star Kids enrolls willing, eligible children in "effective" schools- small, mission-based, autonomous, culturally appropriate non-public neighborhood schools. These schools include independent private schools, Catholic Diocesan Schools and private Christian Schools. All Newport County, Fall River and New Bedford area private schools have agreed to partner with Star Kids.


How we are funded:
Administrative Expenses for the Star Kids Program are provided by grants from our founder, Timothy Flanigan, MD and Brahmin Leather Works as well as our annual appeals, annual spring fundraisers and other private grants. Children's Program Expenses are paid by individuals, corporations, the Dioceses of Fall River and Providence, schools, parishes and our annual appeals and annual fundraisers.

Each student is matched with an individual or group willing to contribute $3,500 per year over a four-year period of time. This entire amount goes directly to the education of the child: for tuition, uniforms, tutoring, after school and summer programs. It is totally tax deductible. Star Kids also welcomes partial sponsor commitments and donations of any amount.

The New Bedford program will give $300 for summer camp or after school program but not both. In addition, the New Bedford program does not contribute towards field trips.

How we determine "success":
The short-term goal for the Star Kids Program is to have each child attend school every day and thrive in their academic community. Star Kids expects the child to do the very best that he/she can in all of their classes with the hope that they will excel. Students are encouraged to become involved in the school community. Their involvement in the after school, summer and mentor programs encourages them to become interested and engaged in the general community. The ultimate long-term goal for the Star Kids Program is for each child to graduate from high school and to go on to a higher educational experience. Our first Star Kids student graduated from high school in June 2006.

Providing educational opportunities to low-income, high-risk children