Advocacy & Events

The Ray of Sunshine brings light to our neighbors with mental illness.

The fund was established in 1998 when a local family expressed an interest in helping people from our communities with mental illness. This family had learned through personal experience that many adults with mental illness do not have the financial resources to pay for small pleasures in life.

Over $55,000 was donated to develop the Ray of Sunshine Fund and Pathways was challenged to fund- raise in order to increase the fund balance. The Ray of Sunshine’s principle balance is accruing interest, a portion of the interest is used to fund requests. As of Fall 2018 the Ray of Sunshine has funded 887 grant requests totaling $50,393.83 and we’re just getting started!

Why Donate?

It’s the extras in life that can make the difference between surviving and thriving. This is especially important for people with mental illness who may struggle with feeling joy in everyday living.  Most applicants receiving funding from the Ray of Sunshine live on a family income of $10,000 a year or less. Thus, paying for basic living expenses is a challenge.

Items that have been funded by the Ray of Sunshine include items for hobbies, health and wellness as well as items of personal interest.

• ​beading supplies

• tackle for fishing

• embroidery kits

• books

• model cars

• paint brushes

• art supplies

• movies

• child's dance class

• bedding

• health center memberships

• walking shoes

• bicycle

• yarn

• winter boots

• martial arts class

• baby clothes

• bible camp fees

• art class

• music

• cookware

Grant applications are only accepted every year from September 15th - October 15th.  You can pick up an application from reception or from you assigned clinician during these times.