This year alone, more than three and a half million children in the U.S. have experienced homelessness. But behind every number is a name, a face, a story.

For Jacqueline, it started with a sudden loss of stability. Her partner was deported, her car broke down, and she found herself without housing. “I went from two incomes to none,” she shared. “It was definitely one of the hardest parts of my life.”

Jacqueline and her son eventually found refuge in a local shelter—but shelters can be tough places, especially for children. That’s where the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children stepped in.

Since 1999, the Foundation has created over 450 Bright Spaces—cheerful, welcoming rooms in shelters, hospitals, and police stations where children can play, learn, and just be kids. These spaces are designed to bring light, love, and hope to families during their most difficult times.

One preschool teacher visiting a Bright Space said, “It looks like a classroom—beautiful, with areas for cars, blocks, quiet time, and imagination. It’s a place where kids can grow their minds.”

Another mother, who arrived in the U.S. with three children, described her experience: “Life wasn’t easy. But this place—oh my God—it was so helpful. Coming here was like a breath of fresh air. A safe haven.”

These stories are not rare. Every year, more than 130,000 children experience the comfort and care of Bright Spaces. They’re more than rooms—they’re lifelines. As one parent put it, “I just appreciate every single thing that everybody in this building has done for me. It helped me breathe again.”

At Bright Horizons, we believe in nurturing not just young minds, but whole families. Our Bright Spaces are an extension of that mission—showing compassion and providing support to our communities in the most tangible ways.

Want to be part of something meaningful?

Learn more about the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children and how we’re working with communities to build brighter futures.

Keep in touch