Family Service of Rhode Island Collects Luggage for Children

The nonprofit organization has launched a drive to collect new luggage, gym bags and backpacks for children who are entering foster care or group homes.

When giving to children in need, people usually donate clothing, but there is a less obvious need we may not think about. Family Service of Rhode Island helps children who are put into circumstances where they must rush to leave their homes because they are no longer safe. All too often, the children stuff belongings into plastic garbage bags because they do not own luggage. Where do these children put their belongings if they are forced to leave a dangerous home environment? That’s where Family Service of Rhode Island has stepped in.

The nonprofit organization has launched a drive to collect new luggage, gym bags and backpacks for children who are entering foster care or group homes. Family Service of Rhode Island is one of the state’s largest and oldest human service agencies, providing group homes and foster homes to those who are in need. This drive will bring our community together and help these children make their first step in starting a new life.

New luggage, backpacks and over-sized gym bags may be dropped off from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the agency’s locations at 55 Hope St., 134 Thurbers Ave. or 9 Pleasant St. in Providence. The drive will continue through Tues., June 30. More information is available at familyserviceri.org. Questions may be directed to the agency’s development director Julie Casimiro at 401-519-2289 or email her at casimiroju@familyserviceri.org.