Hillsborough County, Fla. (Nov. 10, 2025) - Hillsborough County's Duffels of Dignity program is marking three years of providing hope, comfort, and dignity to local children in the foster care system.
Launched in October 2022, Duffels of Dignity began as a simple idea: to replace the trash bags that many children in foster care use to carry their belongings with duffel bags filled with essential hygiene items and personal care products. Since then, the program has distributed thousands of duffels across Hillsborough County - each one representing a message of compassion and belonging.
Since launching, Duffels of Dignity has collected 5,587 duffel bags and suitcases and helped thousands of children in foster care and those experiencing trauma.
A Month of Generosity and Milestones
October also marked a record-breaking month for Duffels of Dignity:
- ICMA Conference Service Project: During the 2025 International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Conference in Tampa, Duffels of Dignity was selected as the official service project. Thanks to a generous donation from Tampa Electric (TECO), volunteers were able to fill more than 300 duffels with personal hygiene items for local foster youth.
- The Sewing Group at Arise Church: Compassion met craftsmanship when The Sewing Group at Arise Church in Brandon dedicated weeks to creating and donating 25 handmade quilts. These quilts will be distributed to children entering foster care.
- Madi's Movement: Multiple duffels filled with personal care items were picked up by the local nonprofit "Madi's Movement" and distributed to young adults ages 16-25 who are aging out of the foster care system.
A Community Rooted in Compassion
What started as a County initiative led by Children's Services has evolved into a collaborative effort between public agencies, faith-based organizations, and residents. The program's continued success is driven by volunteers who fill the bags, local businesses that provide supplies, and donors who help ensure every child receives the same message of dignity and hope.
How to Get Involved
Community members and organizations interested in supporting Duffels of Dignity can learn more at HCFL.gov/DuffelsOfDignity. Donations of new or gently duffel bags and personal care items are always welcome.
LINK: Photos and videos