Hawks will be partnering with the Massachusetts Comfort Cases for Kids in care in the month of November.
This program hits very close to home with me in a myriad of ways. I am looking for your help and kindness that will directly benefit kids who are going through incredibly difficult times as they enter foster homes and look for some normalcy.
Deirdre
Littlefield
began this program and explains her mission in the below statement. Her son, Steve was a tenacious midfielder for me in Abington and then moved on to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy where I coach now. Steve is now serving our country in the Military.
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Friends of Foster Care is a 100% volunteer run non-profit 501c3 serving children in southeast MA.
Their Story:
Annually, we collect new backpacks filled with everything a child may need that first night in foster care. As a hotline foster home, I have seen firsthand the amazing impact these bags have on kids. The children almost melt when they see how lovingly a bag has been packed just for them. It can also serve as an ice breaker as they get comfortable in their new room.
This program was inspired by a little guy in 2013 who arrived to my home the night before Thanksgiving wearing a hospital Johnny, pants and sneakers. My girlfriend dropped him his own suitcase the next day filled with everything he needed and he was elated. It really gave him something special to hold onto in the midst of my family traditions and a house full of my kids and their belongings.
Since then, we have collected and distributed thousands of these bags to each local DCf office in the southeast region. I’ve even received letters from workers who say it’s a morale booster for them to share kindness at such a traumatic time.
Each new backpack can include new pjs, socks/underwear, toothbrush/paste, a flashlight, a plain outfit for school the next day (think Hanes) and a small toy or book.
A teen bag can include deodorant, hair accessories and a journal/pen.
All ages are needed and appreciated:)
Thank you for your continued support for local children living in foster care.
