Mission

The mission of Operation Breakthrough is to provide a safe, loving and educational environment for children in poverty and to empower their families through advocacy, emergency aid and education. Operation Breakthrough has served Kansas City families for 55 years. We have grown to support 750+ of Kansas City’s most vulnerable children and their 450 families, and reach an additional 800 students through school partnerships weekly. Our cradle-to-career programs include: Early Care and Education, School Age before/afterschool and summer, Ignition Lab, Social Services, and Behavioral Health. We prepare children (6 weeks–5 years) for school, keep students ages 6–13 on track, and offer workforce development for teens (14–18). Families we serve average less than $12,000 in annual income and face multiple barriers including trauma, housing instability, underemployment, and limited access to healthcare and education. To address these obstacles, we provide on-site healthcare, therapy, dental care, food assistance, utility and rent support, and financial coaching—at no cost, with the expectation the parent is working, in training, or working with a social worker toward future goals and stability. All families are assigned a licensed Family Advocate and complete a comprehensive Needs Assessment. Advocates work closely with families to address urgent needs and support long-term planning around budgeting, housing, employment, parenting, and education. Emergency assistance is available to prevent eviction, restore utilities, or cover essential needs during transition. Our services are offered at no cost with the expectation that parents are working, in school, or working toward their futures.