Bedtime Bags for Foster Children

Photo by Sonny Ravesteijn on Unsplash

Many organizations are looking to help charities during the holiday season.  There are many different options and ideas for helping.  Monetary donations help move work forward for nonprofits.  Volunteering time is always an amazing way to help.  Giving items that are needed are also an excellent way to provide for the community.  Another idea that mimics stuffing shoeboxes to send overseas is to make a bedtime bag for children entering foster care.  Here is what you need to know to get started....

What is a Bedtime Bag?

A Bedtime Bag is simply a small store bought or reusable bag that is filled with items children would enjoy having at bedtime.  These items bring a sense of security and comfort to children.  The items they contain are all useful and loved.
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Why are Bedtime Bags Needed?

Children entering the foster care system are arriving scared and vulnerable.  The come to our foster closet within the first few days of arriving in their new foster home.  We provide for them basic clothing needs and a touch more.  Bedtime bags offer the children something that truly belongs to them and can make nighttime easier.  The routine of bedtime may become different for them and these items offer a sense of promise and hope.
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How Can We Help Make Bedtime Bags?

Your business or organization can collect reusable shopping bags or have the donated from willing stores.  Collect items that are listed below and and have a day when you can stuff the bags with each of the times. It's also a great way to bring awareness to the community.  
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Photo by Klim Sergeev on Unsplash

What Can We Put in a Bedtime Bag?

• Small Stuffed Animal
• Board Books for Toddlers
• Picture Books for Children
• Chapter Books for Older Children
• Nightlight
• Warm Socks
• Toothbrush/Paste
• Hairbrush
• Bath time products for children
• Small Flashlight

Most of these items can be found at a local Dollar Store and not all items have to be included but the most important are the stuffed animals and books.

Photo by Daria Shevtsova on Unsplash

What More Can You Do?

Donate.  If you don't have time to make bags, but want to contribute.  You can drop off items or make a monetary donation to Flourish to help.  Just click the link below for more information.  

Donate