In a bid to restore a sense of dignity and respect for children in the Georgia foster care system, Totes to Tots Inc. held a bag drive on Friday to assist the over 10,000 foster youth who often transport their life's belongings in garbage bags. According to Atlanta News First, the non-profit's mission to replace these impersonal trash bags with backpacks, duffle bags, and suitcases is also intended to help remove the stigma surrounding children in care.
Monica Kaufman Pearson, the emcee of the Totes to Tots event, expressed her affection for the organization stating, "I love Totes to Tots because it allows us to give children something to hold on to while they’re in foster care." as mentioned by Atlanta News First.
The initiative was started back in 2002 when Georgia Cancer Specialists learned of the foster children's situation from a story shared by an employee, Rough Draft Atlanta reported. Totes to Tots has since amassed more than 80,000 bags and supportive care items, distributing them across every county in Georgia in partnership with the Georgia Department of Human Services. This annual endeavor infuses a measure of warmth into the lives of those children who are often reminded of their uncertain circumstances through the simplest of vessels: a travel bag.
Darrell Dobey, president and CEO of Totes to Tots Inc., reflected on the organization's impact, “Unfortunately, because of privacy reasons, we’re not able to see the smiles on their face but all we can do is expect the best that we can give them and remove that stigma that they don’t have to worry about carrying a garbage bag anymore, but they can carry something that’s a permanent mechanism such as a suitcase or a backpack,” he told Atlanta News First.
The charity's year-round efforts culminated once again in this year's drive, which took place at the Georgia Cancer Specialists Northside Hospital Administrative Annex. Totes to Tots not only collected bags but also essential items such as travel-size hygiene kits, socks, and night lights, details Rough Draft Atlanta. Those looking to contribute to this cause and help Georgia's foster children can learn more about making donations by visiting the Totes to Tots website.
