After completing the adoption of our daughter in September 2014, we were taking a break from foster care. Then, I read the following post: http://www.bluntmoms.com/break-know/ Every time I would read it, I would sob. This quote really got to me, "Trash bags break, you know. Trash bags can’t possibly support the contents of any life, and certainly not a life as fragile as this. They break from the
strain, eventually." I had heard from caseworkers about the belongings getting lost and that many times trash bags were used for convenience. I had thought about options in the past; however, this article got me moving. During my search for a solution, I came across a non-profit in Rhode Island doing bags and no-sew blankets. (https://www.facebook.com/HopeFullRI) I thought that was a great idea. I found a US company that would make the belonging bags from donated reclaimed mesh. The caseworkers really liked the mesh because the bags partially stand. They are easier to fill. They are also breathable and transport well. A great suggestion was made on a label with name and emergency contact information to help make sure precious belongings aren't lost. My hope is the project continues to evolve and grow past Kansas & Kansas City to more states. After about 9 months, we moved to phase 2 and that is finding funding by selling products. To truly take on making a difference in the number of kiddos in foster care, we need to support at risk parents and youth. Our first products were made by a great for profit company in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They are on mission to give second life to reclaimed materials. As we expand our products, we will partner with for profit and non profits companies that train and employ at risk youth and parents. We want to reduce the number of children in foster care and support companies working with these parents and youth. We have items you can purchase from the Store tab on this page or on Amazon. www.amazon.com/shops/sharehugs
Please feel free to contact me with suggestions.
