On August 9th, Journeys suffered an unexpected and devastating flood that has left a lasting impact on our students, staff, and community. In just a matter of hours, water rushed through our school, damaging classrooms, the gym, and countless supplies and materials that our teachers and students rely on every day.

The scale of the damage is staggering — initial estimates place the total loss at over one million dollars. From flooring and furniture to essential technology and teaching materials, every area of the school has been affected.

The most heartbreaking part is knowing that so many of the items we lost were not just “things” — they were tools of learning, items of comfort, and resources that made our school feel like home.

School was set to begin August 25th but the staff anticipates they are at least three weeks away from opening their doors and hopeful for a September 8th start. For many students, Journeys is more than a school. It’s their safe place, a constant in lives already filled with challenges. The delayed start means weeks without the stability, care, and specialized education they count on.

With no flood insurance, minimal private school funding, and no FEMA assistance yet allocated, insurance will only cover a small fraction of the costs. Journeys is urgently asking local businesses, organizations, and individuals to step in — whether through financial contributions, spearheading fundraisers, or providing professional services.

Ways to Help

Donate

We are facing significant costs to repair and restore our building. If you feel led to contribute financially, donations can be made through our website or by contacting our office directly. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps us move closer to reopening our doors.

GIVE NOW
Spread the Word

Please share our story. If you know anyone in construction, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, painting—or any skilled trade—let them know we need help.
Or if you’re part of a church or organization that would be willing to help, please get in touch!

GET IN TOUCH
Amazon Wish List

Our teachers have started compiling a list of items needed for their classrooms.

Amazon Wish List
Volunteer Support

Join us for cleaning, yard work, moving furniture, painting, etc. Bring work gloves and wear old clothing that can get dirty.
Monday, August 25th | 8:30-11:30AM
*Working hands only - young children not allowed
**We are also looking for donations of bottled water, snacks, cookies, etc for our volunteers.
Please click “Sign Up” below or email volunteer@journeyslutheran.org

Sign Up
Culver's Night Out

A wonderful Journeys parent has teamed up with Culver’s in Hales Corners to help support our Journeys Lutheran School Flood Relief Fund.
Here’s how you can join us:
Thursday, August 21st
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Culver’s – 6101 S 108th St. Hales Corners, WI
Be sure to mention Journeys Lutheran School when you order, and Culver’s will generously donate 10% of sales to Journeys!

Please Pray For Journeys

Our students thrive on routine and stability, and this disruption is difficult for them. Many were eagerly anticipating the start of school and now face delays. Families who rely on our support are adjusting to these changes, and our staff is heartbroken. Tears are common in our halls as we see the safe haven we’ve built for our students so deeply affected. Yet even in sorrow, we trust in God’s continued provision and grace.

This year’s school theme, Victory in Jesus, draws our hearts to the cross, reminding us of the unshakable hope and abundant grace we have in Christ—both now and for eternity. It’s a truth that steadies us in joyful seasons and anchors us in times of trial.

When our staff chose this theme, we could not have foreseen the challenge that would soon test our faith.