
At the Children’s Aid Society of West Texas (CASWT), we do more than provide shelter—we help young people build the skills, confidence, and connections they need for a stable, independent future.
Youth who come to CASWT often face complex challenges. Meeting basic needs is essential, but true change happens when youth are empowered with education, life skills, and supportive relationships. With the help of donors and community partners, CASWT focuses on long-term success—not just short-term safety.
How We Empower Youth
📚 Education & Academic Support
Your support helps youth stay connected to school and future opportunities.
-
Tutoring, homework help, and academic advocacy
-
Assistance with school enrollment, credit recovery, and GED preparation
-
School supplies, books, and access to technology for learning
🛠 Life Skills for Independence
We prepare youth for adulthood with practical, real-world skills.
-
Budgeting, cooking, and time management workshops
-
Digital literacy and technology access
-
Job readiness training, including resume writing and interview skills
💼 Career & Financial Stability
We help youth build pathways to sustainable futures.
-
Career exploration and connections to local employers
-
Referrals to workforce and vocational training programs
-
Support with getting an ID so they can enter the workforce
🎨 Creative & Skill-Building Opportunities
Creative expression builds confidence, healing, and engagement.
-
Art, music, writing, sports, physical fitness,
-
Safe outlets for self-expression and personal growth
Creating Normalcy & Connection
Every young person deserves to feel valued and included.
🎁 “Normalcy” Support
-
Gift cards for outings, movies, or meals with friends
-
Toiletries, new shoes, school supplies, and birthday gifts
-
Items that restore dignity and self-esteem
🌟 Positive Experiences
-
Sponsored outings, celebrations, and community activities
-
Opportunities to build healthy relationships and lasting memories
Advocating for Lasting Change
CASWT also works to address the bigger picture.
-
Supporting policies that improve access to healthcare, education, and housing
-
Promoting transitional and independent living options for youth aging out of care
-
Helping youth navigate complex systems like benefits, healthcare, and local services
How You Can Make a Difference:
Your generosity creates real opportunities for young people in our agency. Last year we sheltered over 300 youth and we provided educational and prevention serves to over 6,465 youth.
Give:
Donate funds, hygiene items, school supplies, or wish-list items that meet immediate needs. We appreciate monetary and inkind item. So if you like to shop reference our Wishlist tab or call the shelter to get a current need 940-322-3141.
Click here: https://caswt.org/donate
Partner:
Sponsor activities, provide job opportunities, or support transitional housing efforts. Sometimes our youth go from our shelter into college. So we provide everything they will need to help with that transition.
Why It Matters
-
We address the root causes of youth homelessness
-
We build strong support networks with caring adults
-
We give youth choices, dignity, and hope
-
We invest in long-term stability and independence