We are collecting new/like new backpacks, duffel bags, shoes, & blankets in a variety of sizes & colors for children in Kansas foster care through June 5!

At Susan’s Kids, we recognize the difficult and often abrupt journey children face when entering foster care. With little time to prepare, many are given just minutes to gather their belongings—often placing them into a black trash bag.

It’s a heartbreaking reality that no child should have to endure.

Even when replacement luggage is offered, it’s frequently stained, broken, or the wrong size—reflecting a system that too often overlooks the dignity of the children it’s meant to protect. With the average foster child moving seven times, quality items like suitcases become essential, not just practical.

This year, we’re proud to expand our annual initiative—now called the Care Drive—in partnership with EmberHope. We’re inviting our community to help meet the deeper, everyday needs of foster youth by collecting new:

• Backpacks & duffel bags

• Shoes for children and teens

• Blankets for children and teens

Why these items?

Backpacks and Duffels Bags: A solid backpack or duffel bag has a lot of use for children and teens in care: school, sporting events, sleepovers, and more! They take up less space than a suitcase, making them ideal for youth be able to keep them in their room.

Shoes: A good pair of shoes can make a world of difference. For children and teens entering new homes and new schools, having the right footwear helps them walk in with confidence. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about dignity, support, and helping them take their next steps with pride. We recommend sneakers and sandals so we can serve a wide variety of children.

Blankets: Donating blankets to foster children provides them with warmth, comfort, and a sense of security during a time of transition and uncertainty. These cozy gifts can quickly become treasured items, helping kids feel cared for and giving them something of their very own to hold onto.

Remember: foster youth can enter care as young as babies and as old as 18…a variety of sizes and colors are encouraged.

Ways to Give:

• Shop our Amazon Wishlist: Every purchase is a powerful way to show a child they matter.

• Drop-off Donations: Bring items to one of our donation locations listed below.

• Spread the Word: Share the Care Drive and help others join the mission by sharing this page or downloading and sharing our poster below.

This isn’t just about donations—it’s about dignity. It’s about showing foster youth that they are never forgotten, and they are never disposable.

Together, let's make a difference…one bag…one pair of shoes…one blanket…at a time.