27.6 #4497 (DL Qual #1096)
July 11, 2011 8:26 PM
Anyone else seen that documentary about the homeless families living in the motels across from DL?? "The Kids of Orange County" I think it's called. Broke my heart in half to know that all those children live right across the street from The Happiest Place on Earth and have never experienced it. Watching and hearing excited kids and families going to and from the parks with treats and souveniers they can only dream of.... And most nights they watch all of this on empty tummies. It made me so sad and I'll admit a bit guilty to think of how often we get to go. I thought it would be so special if on our next trip.... instead of buying souveniers we could sponsor 1 family for 1 day at Disney complete with starting the day with a Character Breakfast...and ending it off with dinner on mainstreet watching the fireworks. I have no idea where to begin to even implement something like this.... So I'm throwing it out there - ideas ? Comments?? What do you guys think?
I would love to be involved! Please keep me updated!! - Disneylove21
44.6 #3872 8:29PM
I've never heard of it but it's definitely something I would love to be involved with! Email me if you'd like lisa7531@msn.com - LisaMouse7531
409.1 #318 8:33PM
I've seen it. They said the thing that gives the hope is watching the fireworks every night from the motel room - ERICKA
491.4 #244 8:34PM
I watched it last year. Broke my heart. I think of those kids everytime I visit the parks. - TangledNdisneY
321.5 #13 8:36PM
Oh wow! I never knew! My heart is breaking right now! :( - kritomiester
328.3 #484 8:38PM
My friend is a social worker in the area, well she's a counselor for welfare. I can ask her if she knows of a family that would be worthy. Maybe I can send her your contact info. - PrettyPixie
759.2 #132 8:38PM
I saw it too. It's really sad. - DizGeek
453.3 #271 8:39PM
Never heard of this. My heart aches to think of that. Keep us posted, I would like to help. - jjdq
326.7 #491 8:40PM
Count me in :) - Mouseketeer.for.Short
335.3 #451 8:40PM
I haven't seen it but we can try to contact the network with your idea! My email is jamiew2126@gmail.com or you can text me! - Disneylove21
44.6 #3872 8:41PM
A few questions...Why THOSE hotels...they are more then others? What was the Doc? Meaning you think they got paid? VERY sad! - peacelovemickey
350.6 #411 8:41PM
Disneydreamgirl I'd like to be involved. You don't have your text enabled so please message me so that I can get your email. Thx - PrettyPixie
759.2 #132 8:44PM
@prettypixie that's a really good idea.... I'm in Canada so it's hard to know where to start or even know how to choose a family. I know some have them have been there a long time.... Years even. - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 8:46PM
Omg I'm in. I teach in East LA and most always wanna write about going to Disneyland but most never have been and I always thought I should do something to make that dream of theirs come true, they envy me knowing I go and I always wanted to sponser some of them too but never really knew how to start..hmm u made me start thinking I should really get on it to start. Keep us posted - MarshaMouse
2871.7 #15 8:46PM
I would love to donate. Trojans562@gmail.com - goofy562
6.4 #8743 8:46PM
Yes it's horrible. These are the kinds of students I teach, very close to there. I can't even use the parade as an example because most have no idea what I'm talking about. :( I think every child should go to Disneyland. - PinkyMouse
80.8 #3272 8:47PM
I would like to help. It might be small, but I'd still like to help! - Zipitydoodahdad
258.1 #927 8:49PM
its was called motel kids and they are every where I spend two years in a motel when I was growing up - DonaldDuck85
174.3 #1938 8:49PM
This broke my heart! :( I agree with pinkymouse EVERY child should go to disneyland! Keep us posted I want to help if its possible! - amerado
9.5 #6942 8:50PM
I'm trying to change my settings but for now I'll just post my email.... Wendy_h_44@hotmail.com.... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 8:52PM
Oh and I forgot to add, I'm in to help. - PinkyMouse
80.8 #3272 8:54PM
Are you talking about those magazine solicitor kids? - HotDiggityDogDaddy
1112.2 #74 8:55PM
Count me in! - cinderella5
331.1 #469 8:56PM
This is amazing.... You guys are all truly amazing!! We're gonna be in Anaheim Oct. 10 - 19 and it would be wonderful to plan something for that time.... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:01PM
I want to help too. Maybe we should find out first if Disney sponsors them. I'm sure they do already. A couple of years ago, we met some kids in those sesame street t shirts and they told us they were orphans who got to go to the park for the very first time. - Elaine
404.5 #323 9:03PM
I'm going to guess that Disney won't sponsor them (or anyone) but I'll bet some CMs would sign them in. :) - PinkyMouse
80.8 #3272 9:04PM
A good way to do this might be a reply all type email 'potluck' style where people put there name in to donate an item like ie. 4 churros or 4 t-shirts or 1 day hopper. All price ranges... Whatever a person feels they can afford. Also we would need to send said money to a volunteer on here that everyone trusts. We could send out nominations.... Just some random thoughts... But I've never done something like this so everyone's input is needed and appreciated - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:14PM
I remember one of the Moms of the hotel kids worked at DL! I think she worked in the parking structure? - TangledNdisneY
321.5 #13 9:16PM
I've never heard of i, but it is a great thing you want to do and I would love to be a part of it so please keep me updated. ^_^ - MickeysPrincess
151.3 #2274 9:22PM
That breaks my heart to hear that count me in anything u guys plan. Everyone needs to experience the Disney magic atleast once! - ThumpersMom
13.8 #5875 9:25PM
Ok, we all have great ideas and a passion for doing good. If we are going to do this, how about this, 1 there are thousands here in MW who is willing to donate.each person an give what tgey can but$ 20 per family will work. That will equal $20,000. 2. That can get 100 people in. 3 contact Disney to see what they can do to assist in our cause, ie.. donate plads to get vip services for each family or get special fast passes. With the extra money that will go for food and suviners. I wouldnt mind in assisting with organizing. That is one of my gifts. Lets see how close a family MW can realy be. Pleast text me or email me at mikesburnette@gmail.com.
- PinTrader
262.7 #893 9:25PM
Ok I'm gonna check all feedback to this post over the next few days... But feel free to email me at Wendy_h_44@hotmail.com in the meantime so I have names and email addresses. Everyone will be added to the group list... We'll see how things go from here? - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:29PM
Awesome 2eyedmike thanks for jumping in!! - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:31PM
I'm in too - disneyfreakatbirth
249.9 #1015 9:32PM
I will definitely donate. Count me in! - addiespapa
9.4 #6991 9:34PM
I will donate who should I email? Can you accept international money??? Maybe visa payment or something - Cath
26.3 #4576 9:36PM
I have seen this before and I would love to get involved to help these families experience this place we all love. - mstiauna27
89.3 #3160 9:37PM
I will see if I can contact Disney and get a nonprofit # so I can open an account at a bank for deposits. Maybe we can also put out a call to Admin and let him know what we are trying to do. He might have more weight woth talking to Disney. - PinTrader
262.7 #893 9:59PM
I've seen it, broke my heart. I think ur idea is wonderful. - luvdsny81
34.0 #4218 10:03PM
This would be a very awesome and generous thing to do. I'm not trying to be a downer on here because I too would love for these families to experience this amazing creation of walts, but I think something more on the lines of care packages for the families that include food and necessities would be more appropriate. I've been involved with social justice organizations these past 4 years while I was at Loyola Marymount University, and one thing that I saw was helpful and a more resourceful is to provide the families with something that is more practical. Some people might hate me for this, but unfortunately, these families are for the most part very low income Latino and African American families that would benefit with things that they need. Perhaps this would present itself with such a thing as MWService Project. And after all this if there is would come a trip to Disneyland Resort. In my opinion practicality should come first then fun. Either way this would be a dream come true for a lot of people with either type of help. And again, I know some people won't agree with me but perhaps just consider it because if I were in that position, I would prefer the necessities first. - TikiJOSEsWingman
329.5 #477 10:15PM
well said BTMRRman. At the very least, everyone could donate supplies that are Disney or MW themed. If they need simple things like additional shoes, clothes or blankets, they could be from the park or the store? - dphizz
166.1 #2073 12:14AM
Definately count bgj and I in, we always get involved in things such as this. I agree though we need to make sure these kids are getting food, clothing, hygiene products etc.... just giving out money is not the best idea cause honestly you never know if it will get used properly. - donnievegas
1127.5 #73 12:29AM
I think both ideas are great and with enough support both ideas could totally work!! The kids need a little fun too and even one day would boost their sprits I'm sure!! And they can be using Disney supplies for school etc for awhile! Let me know!! - Sydkitten
123.2 #2682 12:29AM
I agree with @ BTMRRman. If I don't have a home or money for shoes do I really want $20 worth of mickey ice cream for my kid when $20 can buy my family necessities? The average family of four spends over $500 in a single day at the park $400 alone of which is park hoppers. It's such a wonderful and generous idea but if your family had so little you had to scrape for every cent would you rather have one magical day you'd probably feel guilty about taking or would you rather have breathing room for food bills or medication. I don't think there is a right or wrong answer here but it's something to consider. - SorcererMky
167.4 #2066 12:33AM
I gotta agree with BTMRRman. While we may think that going to DL would be a great thing for those kids - food, clothing, a doctor visit, etc may be more what they need (and actually want). There also might be social issues that could present problems. I would love to be a part of something also, but I think it's complicated and has to be done right. I also don't want to be negative... I'd love to bring some Disney magic to those kids... but in the right manner! - msdizmaui
519.0 #224 12:35AM
count me into with whatever help you need padresqueen@yahoo.com - Tinky76
309.6 #565 12:40AM
How about a package to a well deserved family with the things they need plus there tickets in the box and a gift card they can only use there that way you know the Money is being spent at the park.. All ideas are great..!! - HOTDOGsMOMMY
66.5 #3473 1:29AM
I'm gonna follow this post. Please keep me updated! I would LOVE to help! - blackwidowbride
5.7 #9410 2:39AM
Count me in, no matter what the final decision is! - Gia
785.7 #121 4:41AM
Yah I totally get that food and basic nessecities should come first... I also think giving them a memory of 1 (or more) dream day at Disney could give a kid a lot as well. You never know what might be inspired in them! I know I'm inspired everytime I go..... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 6:45AM
I saw this doc last year! Very sad! I wonder How they are now. - swingingwake
217.8 #1389 6:54AM
I think this is an amazing wonderful idea. I wouldn't be able to sponsor a whole family but I would love to donate some money. We could maybe even get some churches involved. - LovelyBree
10.4 #6650 8:07AM
I really liked the idea of a care package as posted by BTMRRman with Disney backpacks filled with socks, underwear, blankets, a hat, T-Shirt, etc. and maybe a Gift Card from the local Walmart or such - possibly donated by Walmart or sponsored?? But I don't like the idea of putting the Disney passes in the package. For one, Disney is an overwhelming entity for most let alone some of these families and I fear most tickets would go unused or be sold. Also, the Disney Gift Card can't be used at the restaurants, only on merchandise. Also I love your enthusiasm ROGLIGHTYEAR and your ideas are super, but I worry about doing a 3 day trip with these families as most of the parents who do have jobs, could never take that kind of time off. I love the idea of a Mousewait Family 'Hosting' one of these families for the day. It would be a connection that these 2 families may share for many years to come. The poster who commented on the NON-Profit Number ~ excellent Idea! I was having serious worries last evening about breaking any State or Federal laws with this.... so I do think that's the best place to start. Keep all the good stuff coming! This is all fantastic! - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 8:21AM
I just noticed your comment LovelyBree so I should elaborate. By hosting another family, it would be with pooled funds through this organization. But the Mousewait family would act as an accompanying host or guide for the day sharing their knowledge, leading them on the adventure, showing them the things they might otherwise miss ~ I know these families need so much more than a day at Disney... but as a mom I can't help but think that seeing their child's faces open in wonderment, or the giggles of excitement or SKIPPING through the park. That's right I said it LOL there shall be skipping - allowed or not. For one day all other reality ceases to exist except the one that lies beyond those gates. Maybe I'm just naive?? - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 8:29AM
Count me in, would love to participate. I agree that one magical day free of daily worries would be great for anyone. I also agree that a backpack filled with daily nessessities is a great idea. - dltwin55
217.7 #1390 8:45AM
Keep us posted too!!! - jennjillo7
15.5 #5606 9:58AM
Keep us posted too!!! - jennjillo7
15.5 #5606 9:59AM
Before you fall for this lock, stock, and barrel, don't forget it was produced by Alexandra Pelosi - Nancy Pelosi's daughter. It had a definite political agenda. - sr citizen space ranger
48.9 #3780 10:11AM
That's true... all documentaries ultimately do. But it doesn't mean that these families don't exist? Anyone here have some first hand knowledge or experience to share? My main motive here was one of a genuine nature.... and nothing more. - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 10:25AM
Maybe we could connect and team up with "Project Dignity", a nonprofit that focuses on helping motel children. You can find out alot about them online. ROGLIGHTYEAR ... I know exactly what you mean. This community has the potential to accomplish great things.... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 10:40AM
Bump - PinTrader
262.7 #893 12:51PM
Bump - PinTrader
262.7 #893 2:14PM
Count me in! Please let us all know the best way to help and we can make something great happen! - Nala
331.5 #466 2:47PM
I have never seen this Doc and I have never seen the kids when we visit the parks maybe because we park in Mickey and Friends structure and do not enter from Harbor Blvd. I saw a preview of the film and I also agree with care packages one young boy had on shoes that had holes in them. A trip to the parks would be awesome but what about long term for these families the day ends and they are still left in dirty clothes, holes in shoes, and hungry bellies. - luvlilo
19.9 #5074 3:02PM
This is a great idea!!! I'm in! I like the GC ideas, it's a good way to ensure they are able to eat in the parks while they're there. I also agree that they need other things besides a Disney trip, si care packages are a good way to help in that area :) - TandAlly
213.5 #1442 3:28PM
I am adding my two cents. Take it for what it worth. I walk by this hotel every morning on my walk. And we bike by it on put way to the park. It is motel style. It would be cool, I think, if they were given care packages. It could have a Disney slant, but from what i see they need food, hygienic care, ect. It is also a half way home, so it has all types. An idea might be to hand out the item at the motel. Just my two cents.... - calimisti
9.1 #7083 3:42PM
I think my original post is being misconstrued. There are already other programs in place that assist with day to day necessities.... Project Dignity deals specifically with the needs of these motel families. Because MouseWait is a Disney community I thought it would be great to give the gift of a Day at Disney... A day away from their harsh realities. Of course when it's over they still live in a motel...I don't pretend to know how to change that. I just wanted to brighten the eyes of a few kids for a day.... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 4:54PM
work on pirates! - missgoofy
367.8 #379 5:03PM
I was thinking seriously about creating a non profit for children like that not disney offiliated but a program with a catchy name for those less fortunate than us crazy supporters of a mouse ! Creating care packages with disney magic in mind would be spectacular im a college student that is a disabled vet with copius amounts of time please hit me up with ideas and i would totally make this a reality not just in the OC but every where ! - Duckfan
12.8 #6090 5:47PM
Hi guys. This is actualy 2eyedmike. My pgone died and I am uding my wifes pbone. I have read alot of posts. And from some I got the sence that taking them to Dland is Almost crule. Well I have and my son is currently volintedring at Royal Family Kids Camp. There is 1 councer pdr 2kids who are from group and foster homes. Some of the kids have been through with what we call nightmares. They go to this camp for a week a.d are treated like royalty. I have seen the hardest kids change before my eyes because someone shosed they truly cared. It also gives hope to them that things can change. There was a kid who was on a beach and thousands of starfish washed hpon the bea,h. A passerby saw the kid throwing the fisb back into - Pintraderswife
458.5 #265 9:00PM
For the people who are still following this post..... How long have you been on MW and how often do you visit DL ??? Just curious..... - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:39AM
@disneydreamgirl... I have been on mw for a little over a month...and I make the trip from San Diego to dland about 4-6 times month ...why the curiosities? - Mouseketeer.for.Short
335.3 #451 9:43AM
Just wondering how that stat correlates to the people who took interest in this post.... That's all - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 11:09AM
I'll preface this by saying I think this is a great idea, I've worked with some of these kids in the past through a previous employer. They are wonderful deserving children. However, for the 100 dollars a 1 day hopper costs you could provide much needed food, clothing, school supplies, household items etc... I still think taking them to Disney could be magical but I also think we need to realize the much more immediate needs they all have - Pixarprincess
531.4 #215 11:19AM
Bump - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 9:49AM
I'd be involved in something like this, jeep me updated. - Darla
22.2 #4878 9:50AM
I will try to keep everyone updated as much as possible. Anyone with info or suggestions please email me..... Thx!! - disneydreamgirl
27.6 #4497 1:03PM
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