The recent annual conference of the International County/City Management Association (ICMA), held in downtown Tampa, Florida, showcased a heartfelt initiative aimed at supporting youth in foster care. The focus was on the Duffels of Dignity program, launched by Hillsborough County Children’s Services, which seeks to provide young individuals entering foster care with dignity and respect.
Traditionally, youths entering the foster care system receive their belongings in plastic trash bags, a practice that can be dehumanizing. The Duffels of Dignity program aims to change that by offering duffel bags filled with essential items. During the conference, delegates dedicated time to prepare 300 duffel bags for distribution across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties.
Attendees gathered to assemble these bags, demonstrating community spirit. They packed each duffel with personal care products, including toiletries and a teddy bear for comfort. Additionally, they included blank, heart-shaped cards where they could write words of encouragement for the children receiving the bags. An impressive total of over 2,000 personal care items were collected for this service project, highlighting the commitment of both the community and organizations like ICMA.
Community Impact and Support
The finished duffel bags were then distributed among several local foster care and support agencies. Beneficiaries included the Children’s Network of Hillsborough County, Family Support Services of the Suncoast, West Florida Foster Care Services Inc., and the Children’s Services’ Children & Families in Need of Services program. These agencies play a crucial role in easing the transition for children entering foster care, striving to alleviate the challenges they face.
The collaborative effort reflects a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of vulnerable youths. By providing these duffels, the initiative fosters a sense of normalcy and care during what can be a turbulent time in their lives.
How to Contribute
Community members interested in supporting the Duffels of Dignity initiative can make a significant impact by donating new or gently used duffel bags, suitcases, and backpacks. Additionally, unopened personal care items such as toothbrushes, shampoo, and deodorant are welcome. The Children’s Services administrative office at 3191 Clay Mangum Lane, Tampa, FL 33618, accepts donations, which can also be shipped directly through the program’s Amazon Wish List.
The Duffels of Dignity initiative exemplifies how local efforts can create meaningful change in the lives of children in need, demonstrating the power of community support and compassion.
