The The Child Welfare League of America reports that there are over 400,000 kids in foster care in the US. Children move on average 7 times while in the foster care system. Very often trash bags are the unofficial luggage of children in foster care. They regularly move from place to place with only the clothes on their backs or their personal items stuffed into a garbage bag. What message does it send to a child when everything they love or possess is transported in trash bags? This is damaging to their self-image and emotional stability. It strips them of their dignity and worth. Children in foster care also need something they can be proud of and that belongs only to them. Trash bags are for trash and not a child’s luggage.
On April 8, 2013, The Teen Toolbox will sponsor the 2nd Annual Pack A Backpack Drive with Coalition of Adoption Programs to deliver new luggage and care packaged to teen males in foster homes, group homes, and homeless shelters. .
Only new and gently used backpacks, duffel bags, and luggage will be accepted. Personal hygiene items needed include: toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, deodorant, soap, lotion, powder, shampoo, conditioner, shaving items, etc.
Our goal is 80 bags. We would like to collaborate with fraternities, youth groups, churches, sports teams, school clubs, and parent groups.
Want to become an Ambassador by hosting a collection site for our Pack A Backpack™ Drive?
Here are 5 easy steps to Pack A Backpack™ collection site success:
1. Select appropriate containers for donations and an accessible collection location. Feel free to decorate the container.
2. Choose collection/drop-off dates and times.
3. Publicize Pack A Backpack™ — social media, canvas your neighborhood, post flyers at home, school, or work. Be sure to acknowledge your collaboration with The Teen Toolbox. Project flyers are available.
4. Sort through all donations at the conclusion of the drive — keep new and gently used items; discard items that are not in good condition
5. Coordinate pick up and/or delivery with Chief Visionary Officer, Nicki Sanders.
* Donations may be mailed to:
The Teen Toolbox, LLC, PO Box 6368, Columbia, MD 21045
The last day to donate directly to us will be May 24, 2012.
Donations will be delivered before the end of National Foster Care Month, May 31, 2013.
Nicki Sanders, MSW, Chief Visionary Officer
The Teen Toolbox utilizes youth portfolio development and civic engagement and academic empowerment strategies to help teens set goals for life after high school and create a road map to reach those goals through its PACKAGED FOR SUCCESS™ Programs. We are committed to supporting and raising awareness about the needs and potential of teenagers in the foster care system.
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