And the emotional toll is debilitating, feeling forgotten and invisible in a world where everyone is connected through a sense of place ꟷ everyone but them.

Life is lonely with virtually no opportunities to have friends over to play video games or have sleep overs.

In contrast, Positive Tomorrows is Oklahoma City's only elementary school solely devoted homeless children. Its aim is to provide intense instruction and a stable environment where relationships can develop and grow.

“When kids come to us, we hear that they've been lonely in public schools. They kind of fall through the cracks,” said Positive Tomorrows development officer Rachel Durham. “We start by providing transportation every day to the families. If they move in the middle of the night, we can get them where they are. Hunger is also something they're worried about. We send home food on the weekends. We give them three meals a day plus snacks. We provide things like school supplies. They're used to being in a group of kids that has very little in the way of school supplies. When they arrive (at Positive Tomorrows), there's already a backpack hanging in their cubby with everything they need.”

In addition, there's counseling for both children and parents and services to help adults get back on their feet.

To help pay for those expenses, Positive Tomorrows is hosting its annual Cork and Canvas event 6 to 9 p.m. April 5 at the Cole's Garden, 1415 NE 63. The evening will feature wine pairings, a signature cocktail, appetizers and silent and live auctions. The highlight of the event is original artwork created by the students at Positive Tomorrows.