An evidence-based, solution-driven response to the most vulnerable population group in our community

Katy Cares is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 2016 as a solution-driven response to our community’s most vulnerable population – single-parent families who are victims of trauma due to a life-altering event such as separation, divorce, abuse, intimidation, domestic violence, financial challenge caused by loss of employment, income, child support, and/or a natural disaster.

Excellence is the result of caring more than others think is wise, risking more than others think is safe, dreaming more than others think is practical, and expecting more than others think is possible.

Ronnie Oldham

Katy Cares is the result of caring for our community.

We saw the need, we were prepared to risk, and we put a solution into place.

Dr. Harry Chapman

Chairman Emeritus, Board of Directors

My hope is that single parent families will be empowered and equipped during their time with Katy Cares..

That they will move forward into a better future with confidence and resilience, filled to the brim and overflowing into the lives of their families, friends and communities.

Allison Stark

Founder and Former President

What we knew about single-parent families when Katy Cares was established

The average number of homeless families in Katy exceeded the national average, according to the National Center on Family Homelessness.

More than 80% of families experiencing homelessness are single-parent families.

At the time, the Homeless Liaison Officer of the Katy Independent School District confirmed that there are an estimated 500+ homeless students in this District alone, and more than 16,000 (about 20%) are economically disadvantaged.

In 2016, about 1,000 homeless students attended Katy ISD, according to the district’s official statistics report. Many of these students are from single-parent families, especially single mothers.

Single-Parent Families: Needs and challenges that we address now

Single-Parent Family Environment: About 27% of children live in single-parent families.

Poverty Rates: The general poverty rate is over 60% higher among single-parent families.

Prevalence: Almost 35% of families in Harris County and nearly 19% in Fort Bend County are single-parent households.

Mental Health: Mental health challenges affect 52% of households in Harris County and 46% of households in Fort Bend County.

Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress, anxiety, trauma, and financial challenges are expected.

Time Constraints: Many single parents take on a second job, limiting their time and involvement with their children.

Child Behavior Issues: Children left alone without proper guidance may develop defiant behavior, low self-esteem, a sense of guilt, and an inferiority complex.

Katy Cares serves families in need across Harris and Ft. Bend Counties.

Populations We Serve

Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: We primarily assist single-parent families. Our support extends to all individuals regardless of race, color, culture, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, background, or reputation.

Evidenced-Based Parenting Programs

Katy Cares parenting programs are validated to be evidenced-based on the conclusions from a university study commissioned by The George Foundation of Fort Bend County, Texas.

The Katy Cares Impact Report

In 2024, Katy Cares made remarkable progress in empowering single parents and children, guiding them toward holistic well-being in body, mind, and soul.

We have witnessed the tangible manifestation of HOPE through our comprehensive range of trauma-informed therapeutic, coaching, counseling, mentoring, and training programs. Additionally, we have supported single-parent families by providing crucial resources such as furniture, food, clothing, school supplies, legal aid, affordable healthcare, and other essential services.

Read more about the impact of Katy Cares and download the report here.

What single parents say about our Ready, Set, Go! Parenting Program

The Ready, Set, Go! Parenting Program offered by the Katy Cares Program has provided me with valuable guidance on enhancing my day-to-day interactions with my children. I have gained the skills to effectively manage, understand, and respond to their behaviors and attitudes.”

This program has been instrumental in helping me gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics within my family. The coaching and counseling sessions have shifted my perspective on discipline, focusing on values rather than solely relying on personal experiences.”

I am now learning to engage in conversations with my children that emphasize the “why” behind their actions and choices rather than solely focusing on the consequences of not meeting expectations. This shift has positively influenced how I discipline my kids, and I receive practical guidance on improving my parenting style.”

The program has exceeded my expectations, enabling me to grow and develop as a parent. I have acquired effective communication skills that allow me to interact more clearly and meaningfully with my children. When I apply the skills and knowledge gained from the program, I observe and experience noticeable differences in my family dynamics. I enthusiastically recommend this program to all my friends, single mothers, and even my ex-husband, urging them to learn, experience, and apply what I have learned over the past few months.”

Katy Cares has expanded our Trauma Informed Therapeutic Program beyond a Residential Program to impact more single-parent families. The new program is called: Ready, Set, Go!

Please join us on this journey as we continue – with your help and support – to impact, to give hope, to council, support, coach, mentor and enable.

Partnerships ensure that more single parents become emotionally, socially, spiritually and financially independent, able and equipped to lead their families.

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Awards And Recognitions

Katy Cares has been acknowledged by several business and community organizations for our impact on homelessness and single-parent problems in the community. Click to view more awards here.