The donations were distributed to Children's Network of Hillsborough and Children's Home Network
Thanks to the generosity and efforts of LLT Academy of Tampa students, duffel bags with more than 600 personal care items, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, and more, made it into the hands of foster care youth.
Students from kindergarten through eighth grade came together for a school-wide donation drive for Duffels of Dignity, a program that provides luggage to children and teens who are caught in a domestic violence situation or foster care and need a bag to store their belongings. The program fills a basic need and offers children a bit of courage and dignity while authorities and social service workers find them safe shelter.
While the donation drive was a group effort, there was also some friendly competition across grade levels. The kindergartners took home first place with over 300 donated items! The students at LLT Academy of Tampa proved they're future community leaders. Studies show that youth who volunteer, participate in service projects, and other forms of community involvement are more likely to perform better in school and become civically active adults.
The students' donations were quickly delivered to two local foster care organizations: Children's Network of Hillsborough County and the Children's Home Network Kinship Care program.
How you can help
Duffels of Dignity donations are still being accepted. To donate, visit the Amazon wish list or drop off new or gently used bags and new personal care items to Hillsborough County Children's Services Administrative Office at 3191 Clay Magnum Ln., Tampa, FL 3368.
If you/your organization is interested in organizing a drive, email Craig Jewesak or call (813) 455-2701 to get started.