We would like to share with you that after 35 years, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is ending its Recycled Card Program. The program, which formerly taught teens work skills by creating new cards from used greeting cards, is concluding due to a combination of challenges. Card sales have been steadily declining, and the organization has struggled with limited volunteer availability to manage the program’s operations. Moreover, our teen work-skills program has evolved, with a greater emphasis on our transitional living program that offers more comprehensive real-life training experiences.

The process of managing card donations has become increasingly complex and resource-intensive. Receiving large volumes of cards by mail, opening and cataloging submissions, and disposing of unused cards requires significant time and financial investment. These logistical challenges, combined with the reduced demand for recycled greeting cards, made the program increasingly unsustainable.

Despite closing this long-running initiative, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children remains committed to being a community of hope and healing for abused, neglected, homeless, and exploited children.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many supporters across the country who have sent used greeting cards over the years, and we hope these loyal donors will continue to support our important work in helping vulnerable youth.