SHIELDS for Families

SHIELDS for Families Believing, Building, Becoming At the time, few had hope for these children. Even fewer had hope for their parents and families. in 1991. And they have.

In 1987, physicians at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center delivered 1,200 infants exposed prenatally to drugs—an all-time annual high in Los Angeles and in our nation’s history. There were no programs designed to serve the special needs of this population, and the future looked bleak. Full of hope, three women banded together to put an end to this epidemic and founded SHIELDS for Families, Inc. Although Kathryn Icenhower, Xylina Bean and Norma Mtume came from different backgrounds, they shared the belief that they could help shape the future. Today, SHIELDS is a nationally and internationally recognized organization that offers award-winning programs in Los Angeles’ most challenged communities. The organization has grown to serve more than 5,000 families each year, employing more than 320 full-time staff, with an annual budget of more than $21 million. SHIELDS operates 30 programs, including four collaborative networks in which SHIELDS serves as the lead agency.

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12/25/2025

Merry Christmas!

12/23/2025

To our SHIELDS community,
Thank you for following our journey.

As we prepare for winter break, we want to share our deepest gratitude for your support. Following our work is more than just a “click”—it’s a powerful show of support for the communities we serve.

Please know that just as you stand with us, we are always here for you. We are truly grateful to have you as part of our community.

With gratitude and warm holiday wishes,
SHIELDS for Families

12/02/2025

Today is Giving Tuesday!
Help SHIELDS This Holiday Season!

Please consider making a donation and use the keyword “Holiday Joy”—this ensures your gift goes directly toward brightening the holidays for our community.

11/27/2025

Dear Friends,

As we move into this season of giving thanks, we’re reminded of the incredible community that surrounds and supports SHIELDS. Your collaboration, trust, and commitment make everything we do possible.

We’re grateful for the shared efforts that uplift families, strengthen communities, and inspire hope every day.

And whether times are joyful or challenging, please know that SHIELDS is here to offer support, compassion, and connection whenever it’s needed.

From our SHIELDS family to yours, we wish you a wonderful, safe, and joy-filled Thanksgiving holiday!

11/26/2025

Help SHIELDS This Holiday Season!

More than ever, the families we serve are facing impossible choices—like whether to pay rent or buy groceries. This season, we’re committed to easing that burden and bringing a little joy.

Your support will help us provide toys, gift cards, and other essentials for SHIELDS kids and families in need. Please consider making a donation and use the keyword “Holiday Joy”—this ensures your gift goes directly toward brightening the holidays for our community.

Plus, your end-of-year gift is tax-deductible—so you can spread joy while supporting a great cause!

Together, we can bring smiles, comfort, and relief to families who need it most.

With gratitude,
SHIELDS for Families
👉https://www.shieldsforfamilies.org/online-donations/

11/26/2025

Help SHIELDS This Holiday Season!

More than ever, the families we serve are facing impossible choices—like whether to pay rent or buy groceries. This season, we’re committed to easing that burden and bringing a little joy.

Your support will help us provide toys, gift cards, and other essentials for SHIELDS kids and families in need. Please consider making a donation and use the keyword “Holiday Joy”—this ensures your gift goes directly toward brightening the holidays for our community.

Plus, your end-of-year gift is tax-deductible—so you can spread joy while supporting a great cause!

Together, we can bring smiles, comfort, and relief to families who need it most.

With gratitude,
SHIELDS for Families
https://www.shieldsforfamilies.org/online-donations/

11/21/2025

Address

11601 S. Western Avenue
Los Angeles, CA
90047

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+13232425000

Website

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