Case for Kids gifts foster kids with dignity
On any given day there are approximately 428,000 children in foster care in the United States. These kids are moved from the homes they know, often with no possessions of their own. In most cases, the few belongings they do have are carried with them in an over-sized garbage bag.
Enter Ministry Case For Kids, a Tracy-based nonprofit that serves foster children in Tracy, Manteca, and Mountain House. The volunteer-run organization grew out of a need noticed by Lori Souza, president of Case for Kids and a social worker in the foster care system. With help from the community, Case For Kids gifts kids entering foster care new items in a plastic Sterlite container—not a garbage bag.
“It gives foster kids a sense of dignity. Entering the system with a garbage bag can be really tough,” says Melissa Lea, volunteer coordinator for Case For Kids. “The case is something of their own that they can take with them, whether they continue in the system, are reconnected with their family or are adopted.”
This year Case For Kids plans to help 250 local children entering foster care. Every case comes with at least three outfits, toiletries, bed sheets, toys, books, and anything else they may need. To make it truly special, the cases are customized for each child, decorated with their name on top and filled with items they enjoy.
“When we receive a request from a case worker or foster parent, we post the need on our Facebook page. A community member will volunteer to help fill the case,” Melissa explains. “We send them the child’s first name, age, clothing and shoe size, as well as their favorite color and interests. We often times include items they specifically need.”
First and foremost, the cases help kids. However, there’s a clear perk for foster parents, as well. These individuals give so much to the children they foster, often taking in sibling sets or welcoming children into their home at a moment’s notice. The case takes a little burden off of their shoulders as kids are coming in at least a little prepared for their new normal.
“These cases give them a little breathing room and help them make these beautiful children more comfortable,” Melissa says.
To get involved, follow Case For Kids on Facebook and keep an eye out for volunteer requests. Donations of new items are also accepted; the organization is especially in need of twin bed sheets.
Case For Kids is run by a volunteer board. Lori Souza, Ronda Link, Carly Reser and Melissa Lea make the efforts possible.
For More Information:
Facebook.com/CaseForKids