Suitcases for Kids

According to the US Department of Health and Human Resources Administration for Children and Families, there were over 400,000 children in Foster Care in 2018. In Anderson County, Kentucky, the number reported by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in September of 2019 was more than 50. Children enter the foster system when their family is going through crisis. Often this happens without any warning and the children’s personal items are placed in garbage bags for a quick exit.

 The Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) Education Assistant in Anderson County was troubled by the notion of children moving around in garbage bags and took action. Joining forces with Anderson Community Education and the local Cabinet for Health and Family Services a “Suitcases for Kids” drive was started and advertised through Facebook and local Churches. Community members were asked to donate their gently used suitcases. The response was outstanding! The goal of 50 suitcases was met and exceeded, a large number of the suitcases being bought new just for these children.

The foster program helps a great number of families. Having suitcases available for these children will allow them some dignity when they are moved from one place to another. “Suitcases for Kids” allowed many people to help who otherwise might not have known there was a need.